Please read through the Q&A before posting a question. This will help everyone to not have duplicate questions. Thank you!
If you still can’t find a related answer, then you are welcome to ask your question in the comments section below.
Q&A
Is Meniere’s disease a disqualifier?
What if I’ve had surgery for Meniere’s disease?
Does vertigo disqualify me from getting a medical card?
What if I take anti-seisure medication?
Can I pass a DOT physical after having a stroke?
If a driver is diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder will they fail the DOT physical?
If I take antidepressants can I still get a DOT medical card?
Is Meniere’s disease a disqualifier?
Yes. Meniere’s disease is disqualifying because it may bring about a severe condition of vertigo and is unpredictable. The risk here is sudden incapacitation.
What if I’ve had surgery for Meniere’s disease?
Still is a disqualifier. The FMCSA is reviewing this in terms of certification.
Does vertigo disqualify me from getting a medical card?
It could. When the medical examiner does his examination, one of the things he is looking for is things that would be unsafe for you as a driver and how it effects your ability to maintain control of a commercial motor vehicle. Part of that examination is to test for virtigo. If he feels the condition is unsafe then he will not pass you. If he feels there is something that can help you maintain, he may make a suggestion for you to follow-up with a specialist.
Drivers who have had one unprovoked seizure by definition do not have epilepsy (2 or more unprovoked seizures). Drivers who are seizure-free and off anticonvulsant medication(s) for at least 5 years after a single unprovoked seizure can be certified. Earlier return to work may be considered for drivers with a normal EEG who have no epileptic-form activity and normal examination by a neurologist specializing in epilepsy. (This answer from the FMCSA website)
What if I take anti-seizure medication?
Right off the bat you would be disqualified as a CMV driver. There is a new federal exemption for seizure and related medications. You will need to check with the FMCSA regarding that particular paperwork.
Medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy is disqualifying. Where a driver can demonstrate that safety would not be diminished by the condition, it is possible to apply for an exemption.
Can I pass a DOT physical after having a stroke?
It depends on many things, including the likelihood of having another stroke. Your best bet is to first go back to your neurologist and have him/her write a medical opinion letter stating:
- When you had the stroke.
- What was the treatment, and how successful was the outcome.
- What is the treatment you are receiving now.
- The doctor’s medical opinion about your readiness to return to work as a driver. Make sure that he/she knows all of your physical daily activities as a commerial driver.
With that information in hand when you go to do your DOT medical examination, then the DOT examiner has all the appropriate information to determine your physical state of fitness to perform the duties of a commercial driver.
If a driver is diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder will they fail the DOT physical?
Well, it isn’t that you fail outright, but you will be asked questions regarding the condition:
- What treatment routine has been established.
- How long you’ve been on that routine.
- How are you responding to treatment/medication, etc.
So just prepare for the question line in advance, bring documentation from your treating doctor with you, and you could do just fine.
If I take antidepressants can I still get a DOT medical card?
Well it’s not impossible, but what you will need to do is get a medical opinion letter from your treating physician that states:
- When you were diagnosed with the condition?
- What treatment program does he/she have you on?
- Is the condition stable?
- Does your physician feel you could do the duties of a commercial driver and be safe for yourself and the people/public around you?
Then take that information the DOT physical appointment. It will still be the DOT medical examiner’s decision whether or not to certify you.
I have an anxiety disorder on and off. This raises my BP readings. Can I still pass the DOT physical if I take beta-blockers?
You should talk with your primary healthcare provider to determine whether or not this would interfere with the responsibilities and stress of being a commercial motor vehicle operator. If your doctor feels OK about your driving and understands the role of a commercial motor vehicle operator, then he should write a medical opinion letter for you to take to the DOT examination, explaining your condition, treatment and safe usage of the medications you are taking and whether your specific condition is stable. That way there is no surprises for you or the DOT examiner.
Can’t Find An Answer For Your Question?
If you have a question that you feel has not been answered, scroll down to the Questions and Comments box and post your question.
- Before posting, please make sure you are on the appropriate Category page, so that relevant questions and answers can be found by other drivers too.
- To save us all from zombie spammers, your question will not appear on this page until it has been approved.
- Trucker Docs™ will answer your question as soon as possible.
- Visit this page again soon to see our response.
P.S. Your email address will not be published.
Your comments are also welcome.
I am a CDL holder that in April 2007 I failed a DOT drug-test for marijuana. I went to a DOT SAP (and paid for it out of my own pocket) whom recommended 10 hours of educational awareness and some additional testing (the details of which I do not remember due to it being 12 years ago now)
In June 2007 I returned to duty and drove CMV until February 2008 when I left my job for unrelated reasons. I have not applied for a job that would require me to comply with 49 CFR
382.101 – 382.727 since, thus I have not driven a CMV or otherwise used my CDL in more than 11 years.
It is now April 2019 and I want to use my CDL again and have just completed a refresher course which I paid for out of pocket.
Prospective employers are asking (required under 49 CFR §382.217 & §382.309???) to obtain the 12 year old DOT SAP documentation but the SAP and my former employer are NOT required to retain them past 5 years (49 CFR §40.311 & §40.313) which has already elapsed.
What is the recourse for a company that wants to hire me without initiating a NEW DOT/SAP process?
What is the recourse I can act on apart from a prospective employer without initiating a NEW DOT/SAP process?
@ Mr Smith
No one is required to maintain medical records for greater than 7 years. If you have not used marijuana or any other illegal drugs since 2007, then you are not required to produce any medical records.
ive been diagnosed with adhd and biopolar. but i havent had any problems or seen a doctor or any medication for about 10 years will i be able to pass a DOT physical ?
@ Billy J
The CME may request further medical documentation before issuing a new medical card, be as prepared as possible.
if you have had mini strokes and or short term memory problems can you pass a dot physical
@ Louis W
Depends on the class drivers license. States requirements and guidelines vary from state to state and from the FMCSA guidelines. Check with your state first for an answer. FMCSA examiners are going to ask a lot of questions and will require medical documentation from your physicians.
i’ve been diagnosed with vestibular migraines, i get vertigo from this.which happens spontaneously. It hasn’t happened in five years but just started up again. they didnt know what was causing it before but they do now. am i ok to drive with a doctors note? I had just passed my DOT examine before it started. im working inside the warehouse now. but want to go back out. what are my options? is this dequalifying?
@ dave c
Dave we have already answered this question for you, time didn’t change the answer.
this is my first time on here< must be a different dave c
@ Dave C
Vestibular migraines with spontaneous vertigo would be a FMCSA disqualifying factor. We apolize and had the same question from another dave c.
I someone is 302’d can they lose their DOT medical card?
@ Millie
302’d ? ? ?
In August 2018 I was in the hospital to have a ovarian tumor removed 4 hours before surgery I had a single seizure that lasted less than 5 minutes . The hospital gave me a ct scan showing a brain tumor on both frontal lobes was put on Keppera, in November 2018 I had the tumor removed thankfully no seizures since the 1 at the hospital, then in Feb.2019 I was taken off Keppera from my neurosurgeon and still no seizures. I have had a eeg done with normal results. I was a million mile safe driver and wanting to go back to the road, I have a Class A license interstate driver.
@ Pamela E
Due to both the seizure and the medications FMCSA is going to put you on a waiting list before doing a medical card examination. You might check into your states guidelines/variances regarding cdl / intra-state only.
I’m not eligible for a waiver? I have not had any seizures since the 1 in August. As for the medication I’m not longer on any.
@ Pamela E
A one time seizure raises lots of questions, especially for a CME. Medical documentation will be helpful, but will at least open the situation for questions by the CME. Otherwise it’s a waiting period for you.
I fainted and was cleared to return to work by my doctor after ten days of many tests showed no underlying condition (cardiac, carotid, halter, CBC.) I do not have diabetes or HBP. I was then told by a medical examiner that I have to wait 3 months to return to work, DOT rules. Is this period of time correct? Thank you.
@ SS
Based on a one time event, that can be supported by medical documentation, it falls to the examiners discretion. Guidelines takes loss of consciousness, of any kind and for any reason, seriously. But the examiner makes the final decision.
Hi i was in a car accident 13 yrars ago and got whip lash, so I my can not touch my ear to my shoulder. Range of motion is limited but not horrible. Will the doc have an issue with that? I’m not on any medications.
@ Raquel F
FMCSA has a general range of cervical motion, but it sounds like you should be fine.
I was diagnosed with Valley Fever 6 years ago and a shunt was placed in my brain during a brain swelling incident. The medication I take (Fluconazole) does not cause drowsiness and keeps the virus at bay. Will I be denied DOT clearance?
@ Harvey D
You can clear a DOT, but you are going to need to provide medical documentation for the DOT examiners.
In January I was diagnosed with a benign meningioma on the brain stem that was removed. I’ve been treated and released by my surgeon to go back to work. The DOT doctor says I have to wait one year before they an give me a medical card. Can benign tumors be appealed? if so what is the process and how long can that take?.
@ Tom B
If you are a class A interstate driver, then the examiner is following the FMCSA rules and regulations to make his decision. If you are a lesser class or an intra-state only driver, then you fall under the states variances. Check with your state licensing for your appeal process, if you fall under state variance.
I’d hate to be the guy who asks the obvious question but how are there truck drivers at all with all these restrictions literally every one who exists could be diagnosed with one of these issues
I have epilepsy. i take medication for it. I have not had a seizure since 1993. I drive a car, fire truck and an ambulance. I was told that i failed DOT physical. Would I qualify for an exemption?
@ Rob J
Short answer, yes. You will need to check with the DOT/FMCSA for the process.
I have epilepsy and have not had a seizure since 1993. I am on medication. I drive a car, fire truck, an ambulance. Tried once for DOT physical and was told i would never pass. I also have High Blood Pressure and take medicine. Would I qualify for an exemption?
@ Rob J
Short answer, yes. You will need to check with the DOT/FMCSA for the process.
I’ve had cataplexy for the past 12 years and I’m prescribed medications to control my cataplexy events. Am I disqualified from receiving a DOT Medical Card?
@ JW
Proper medical documentation from your physicians will be needed. If the condition is controlled, and the means is satisfactory to the examiner, then you may have a chance for a cdl medical examination. Be Prepared.
I was diagnosed with PTSD about 4 years ago, anger, irritability and anxiety. I was prescribed propranolol, typically a heart medication.
I’ve had my class A since ’92 never failed my physical.
I applied for a job and they require you to see their doctor. So I did and he restricted me to a yearly physical. He said it doesn’t matter why your taking it, it’s a heart medication and restricted me to a year.
I’m looking for clarification.
Was my other doctor wrong in giving me a regular 2 year physical or is this new doctor wrong in restricting me.
They both know what the medication is for, I had the proscription with me every time.
@ Arnold M
This recent examiner is interpreting the FMCSA guidelines one way and the other examiners interpreted it differently. By understanding the reasoning for the medication, then the CME may make a more informed decision. Try getting your prescribing doctor to send a note explaining your situation. It may be enough for the CME.
Hello All,
Thank you in advance. I am looking to confirm the diagnosis I received from a DOT exam. I was told I cannot qualify for a DOT Medical Card until I have completed a one year waiting period due to a Subdural Hematoma surgery procedure.
Is this feedback accurate?
Thank you, Ric
@ Ric S
If you are a class A, OTR driver, then the CME is following the FMCSA guideline to the letter. You may want to look into Intra-state only during the wait.
In Sept. I told by the DOT dr that my vertigo needs to be proven not to be Menerize disease. I finally seen the neurologist today, and was diagnosed with Vestibular Migraines. Will this be enough for DOT drs to finally pass my DOT physical? Thank you in advance.
@ Cindy M L
You will need further documentation due to a new diagnosis. The CME is looking at the FMCSA guidelines and weighing the ‘Risk Factors’ involved, that’s his job. If supporting medical documentation can confirm that the risk is non-existent, you’ll get your medical card.
Hello,
I was wondering if having mild controlled asthma would disqualify me. I haven’t had an asthma attack in over 15 years and take Advair daily for the past 15 years. Plan on doing local driving. Also I have a peanut allergy and carry epi pens Just incase of allergic reaction. Planning on going to cdl school in 2 weeks but don’t want to waste the money if I cant drive.
Thank you
@ Rick
As long as your condition is well under control and you carry an emergency inhaler, you should be fine. The CME may request some additional medical documentation, based on his findings during the examination.
I’m actively looking for a job out of state. I’ve been issued a one year card for the last 3 years because of a bipolar diagnosis and the medication I was on. With the doctors approval I have been off of medication for one year. I think the diagnosis was false and I assume my doctor thinks the same because he has put me on PRN(as needed) visits. Can I have documentation from my current home state doctor to use after moving out of state to get my dot card? I think it would be kind of difficult to find a doctor in another state, without knowing my medical history, to have them give me the all clear. Also if I can get my two year card back in my home state will there be any issues when I have to check the box that says “have you ever been issued a card for less than two years”?
@ Anonymous
Recent medical documentation from your regular physician works everywhere. Make sure you get medical release forms from your doctors. Most likely, the CME is going to hold you to a year, at least for awhile.
My husband (60 years old) has been diagnosed with early onset dementia. He takes Donzapril, Memantine, Plavix and Gabapentin. He also had a heart attack 1 year ago and had a pace maker put in a couple of months ago for a slow heart rate. Will he lose his CDL
@ Dana
His cdl is a state issued license. Your state may require a valid DOT medical card to maintain his cdl. Check with your states DLD for the best answer.
I have an anxiety disorder and take xanax for the last 17 years. My condition is under control but I’m concerned that the medication I take may disqualify me even though I don’t have the side effects from the medication due to being on it for so long ( no drowsiness or dizziness. I want to drive school bus. Would it be wise for me to change my medication to a different one and if so do you know which Medications are approved so I’m not denied?
@ Anna
No need to change your medications. You will be driving school bus and so you fall under the states variances, not FMCSA. Make sure the examiner know the difference between the two.
I really wanted to say I have NOT found anything to state or support what or reason why I have to go see a neurologist???? And I did found out he was suppose to complete my exam then tell me what I needed to do. But he has not told me anything except he just took my money and left me hanging.
I am up for renewal and the physician tells me that I have to get a letter from my doctor stating the fact that I took Gabapentin for diabetic nerve pain now he tells me I need to go see a neurologist even though I quit taking it cause it did nothing for me and my son informed me that they made it into a narcotic class. I am type 2 and take metformin twice a day and I have found nothing to state this I get renewed every year and this is the first time I have ran into this and I do not have the money for this and I am wondering is he telling the truth or trying to get more money out of me and I have already paid and still I got to go see another doctor and for what and he did not complete my exam??? I have bad knees and no cartilage in my right knee is just about gone. I do have arthritis in them and few other places. I do everything my doctors says to do and still no enough. And I need help I got bills to pay and I do research but what I have found does tell me why I need to see a neurologist?? I did look up the drug list and sure enough it was on there.
@ Maxx M
Go get a second opinion elsewhere.
I have been diagnosed with clinical depression and have been committed twice I am not taking any medication and it has been a year since I was wondering would I still be able to pass my dot medical.
@ Alex
You are going to need medical documentation before being able to do the examination. Check with the DOT examiner and ask what he/she will need before performing a DOT medical certification examination.
I’ve already been driving for a year and a half. I’ve been diagnosed with apergers as a child and don’t require any medications or assistance. Unfortunately the psychiatrist who I was with wants to see children who need medication. Do I need to bring a doctor’s letter for my next physical?
@ Ben
The CME may request further documentation, but if you are not on any medications, then it’s unlikely.
I currently hold a class A CDL in the state of TX and remain gainfully employed. This past October I was diagnosed with a DVT within the left sinus cavity of my brain, which resulted with an with the onset of hydrocephalus. I have since been placed on meds to clear up the DVT, and was necessary to have a VP shunt placed to rectify the hydrocephalus portion of my illness. I have since been released by my neurosurgeon “With no restrictions or physical limitations” to return to work. I have since been driving without any sort of seizures or other questionable incidents. As far as I can tell, I have no physical limitations that would prevent me from passing the medical portion of the certification. Is there currently anything in writing that prohibits the examiner from certifying me to continue on with my employment? In addition to that, I drive strictly intrastate in a Class B vehicle, not much larger than that of the non-CDL vehicles on the road in and around Houston. My out–of-town trips mainly consist of an occasional trip toward Dallas, San-Antonio and such.
@ Albert VB
With proper documentation and a medical release form from your neurosurgeon you should be fine. You fall under the states variances, so make sure the examiner understands your job and drivers class.
I have held a CDL for more than 25 years. I drive a small special purpose bus for my day care center. I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis in December 2011. The symptom that alerted me was drooping eyelids. My symptoms are under control with medication and I have no active symptoms nor has there been any progression of the disease. I have received clearance from my neurologist every year, including this year. I go to get a CDL physical annually and the physicians have accepted the neurologist’s letter of medical opinion. However, when I went for my physical this year (and I had a newly dated medical release), the doctor at the clinic where I went would not grant approve the physical because I was unable too walk on my toes. I have arthritis in my ankles which is the cause for this, which I told her, but she wrote on the form that it was because of the Myasthenia. She said if I could not walk on my toes, I could not depress the brake pedal properly – which is odd since I have been doing it with no problem for seven years! She told me I could not appeal this. What do I do?
@ Cathy B
Unless you are a class A driver, you would fall under your states variances too. Try getting a second opinion, someplace else. Also explain the driving job that you have and your existing license class.
I had a stroke a year ago but still have minor problem with right arm and leg,I can make them do what I want but not without slight difficulty,will dot doctor pass me?
@ watson R S
Not without your ability to fulfill the FMCSA drivers job description, without restrictions or limitations.
Husband got a letter stating his CDL has been downgraded, he got his reminder that the medical card expired a couple months ago. Couldn’t take the DOT exam because he hasn’t been cleared to go back to work after neck surgery (end of July). It says he has to appeal? How do you do that? Live in St. Louis County, MO.
@ KB
Check with your local DLD for the best answer.
I had a car accident in 1978 and was in a comma for 4 days. I have been granted a CDL and have had one for many years. I let it go last year because I did not neee it. I was awarded a new position and went to renew my CDL and the physical Dr told me that due to a major head injury…. that he could not pass me. Really????
@ Brad B
Get a medical release form from your neurologist explaining the time frame and likely prognosis. That should be sufficient for the DOT examiner.
can a subarachnoid hemorrage disqualify you from operating a commercial vehicle? I had a ruptured subarachnoid hemorrage in 2011 and spent a month in the ICU.
@ Gerald H S
Most likely, you would have great difficulty documenting your over-all ability to operate a CMV safely. CME’s are looking at the potential safety risk, for both the public at large and the drivers themselves.
Question: I was driving a school bus and had a stroke early September. The neurologist wants another mri with contrast. Will I be able to drive a school bus again. HE has cleared me once my new glasses come in. I live and drive in NY state
@ Mike H
You fall under the states variances, so check with your state DLD. You should be OK to drive school bus, if all else is wintin normal limits.
I was injured by steel that was knocked from my trailer on February 28, 2018. I had brain surgery that night. On June 5, 2018 I passed my dot physical and had to take forms to be filled out by the Neurologist. He stated that I could possibly have a seizure and they denied my physical. I was sent to a General Doctor and new Neurologist in August. Both doctors said it was just a slight chance I could have a seizure. The physician assistant denied to look at the forms and redo my physical for one year. Is this possible per FMCSA?
@ Shelly R
Yes, according to the FMCSA guidelines.
In the early 1990’s I was diagnosed with Menieres Disease in my left ear. I then had a Vestibular Nerve Section, and finally a Labyrinthectomy. So, I do not have a functioning left ear labyrinth, as it was removed. I have been symptom free for over 20-years, and zero balance problems overall. I have regular hearing tests and have almost perfect hearing in my right ear, which means no more Menieres Disease.
My local ENT says that I no longer have Menieres, due to my surgery, and good hearing tests. I just went to the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles, and saw Dr. Mia Miller who is a specialist in Menieres. She also says I no longer have Menieres, although I do not have a functioning left ear labyrinth, as it was removed.
I have also sent an email to FMCSA asking for clarification, as they note that if you have had surgery for Menieres, they are investigating, since 2014. Still waiting for further clarification.
Any thoughts on my specific situation?
I am wanting to semi-retire and drive OTR for the next 10-15 years until I fully retire. I am currently 53 years old.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Thanks,
@ Steven B
You should not have any issues with the DOT medical examination. Make sure you take any supporting documentation with you and you should be fine.
what if AI was presrived dilantinmore than 10 yrs ago but thave not taken any in over 2 years with no problems can AI keep my cdl
@ Lance K
Keep your cdl? Or pass a DOT medical certification examination for CDL holders. The medication will cause questions and will need supporting documentation. Be as prepared as possible before going in for the exam.
can a neurologist revoke a medical card and if so who do you inform that its being revoked? Or who reports it?
@ Big Guy trucker
Unless the neurologist is a certified examiner on the FMCSA registry, then he cannot revoke a medical certificate. But it does raise questions as to why he would want to do so.
Tbi/pcs/ vertigo to name main symptoms that came from a head injury
@ Big guy trucker
Then it is not the neurologist that is classing you as disqualified, it should be the DOT examiner. And the examiner has to have supporting documentation and information from your neurologist before he can make his final decision of pass or fail.
I had my physical/drug test this past week just worried cause I had anxiety a year and half ago I took Xanax for my anxiety but I’ve been off and medically released from my doctor a year and a half ago will that affect my chances of getting my class A license
@ Erik
It should not be an issue, but you may need a medical release form from the prescribing doctor explaining your situation.
My brother had a anyurism removed 10 years ago. He is saying now that he cant get a medical card because of ut. We want to team up but, question is can he get a medical card
@ Larry S
Your brother may need to have a medical release form from his doctor, but other wise he should be fine.
I received a concussion back in 2011. It was a minor concussion with 0 long term effects, I didn’t even lose consciousness. The doctor that I was sent to for my physical wants me to get a neurologist to sign off saying that I am good to drive. My PC won’t give a referral for one because they said that I shouldn’t need one but since they aren’t a neurologist, the other doctor won’t accept a medical release opinion from them. I have also tried to see about getting my medical card through another doctor but my company is requiring me to go through the first doctor. So I guess my question is, is there any sort of regulation that I can use to support that I don’t need a neurologist to sign off due to it being a minor concussion that happened more than 7 years ago?
@ Michael T
You are between a rock and a hard place. The company has some type of relationship with their examiner. You can request a second opinion, period.
I was diagnosed with pcs from my concussion and still dealing with some issues. What is the reality that I will never get a medical card to drive commercially again?
@ Swuatchy
First answer still stands.
Will being diagnosed with pcs from a concussion prevent me from getting a medical card again?
@ Squatchy
All depending on the ongoing symptoms. Have a medical release form from your prescribing doctor with his working diagnosis. That will be a huge help to the CME.
I am a school bus driver in Alabama. I’ve been unable to find specific information on my issue. I was just diagnosed with chronic ptsd as a result of 31 years in public safety. I am currently on xanax and will be beginning therapy and possibly prescribed other meds. Is this a death sentence in regards to my school bus career? if I’m honest there are days that I’m super stressed while driving and i’m worried that my meds will sedate me too much to drive safely. It’s a paradox that is very confusing to me.
@ James A
As a school bus driver, you fall under the states guidelines and regulations, so check with your local DLD. Remember, it’s all about safety to both you and the general public at large. You should be on any new medication for at least thirty days before returning to driving.
I had a stroke in early June the only the that was effected was my voice which I am taking speech therapy and getting better everyday I do drive local what are my chances of returning.
@ Travis D M
If you drive intra-state only, then your chances are good, based on your states variances. FMCSA will hold you to at least one year waiting period before considering a new DOT medical certificate.
I had a work injury (May, 2017) to my left shoulder & arm, and required neck surgery – during pre-op exam, they found a heart murmur which led to open heart surgery, pacemaker implant, and finally, the back/neck surgery (3rd one). I currently take clopidogrel (Plavix generic) and gabapentin (for nerve damage) 3 times daily. Just had a pocket revision of the pacemaker, as I had pain/swelling for the past year. Currently on SS disability. Any chance I could get my DOT med card?
@ Joseph F
Not until you are fully recovered and released from any further care.
I’m currently a bus driver with a class B cdl, I’ve been diagnosed with essential tremors since 2009. I’m taking Primidone (anti-seizure med) as well as propranolol Can I legally drive a school bus?
@ Ran
Your situation falls under the states variances, not the FMCSA, so check with your local drivers license department for the best answer.
What is the regulation if a driver attempts suicide and the Police are called.
One of my drivers attempted suicide and we drive Haz Mat……where is this addressed in the FMCSA guidelines? I was told no DOT for a year. Who reports this to the DMV.
Question:
I received a T.B.I. (Traumatic Brain Injury) , 8 years ago. Is it enough to keep me from passing a physical to get a CDL ? I am feeling very much normal now, almost the way I use to be. I use to have a CDL. But let it go about 4 years ago, and want to get another now that I am feeling better. And take up driving truck again. From a different state of course! Want to take a CDL course to get another.
@ Marvin R
You are going to need a medical release form from your doctors, along with your most recent test results. Your previous condition is going to raise questions to your ‘safety risk’ as a driver, so be prepared to get additional documentation for the medical examiner.
I currently have a class A cdl I’ve been driving for almost 3 years. Last month I was diagnosed with guillain-barré syndrome. Can I lose my medical card? I’m still working with a neurologist and right now I currently have no reflexes throughout my body. Should I be worried?
@ Emanuel
You will, ultimately, lose your medical card due to this condition. As your condition progresses you will be unable to pass the DOT medical certification examination. Hopefully the work that you and your neurologist are doing will slow the conditions progress.
I went to take a dot physical and drug test and i noted that I am schizophrenic. I passed every test until the medical DOT doctor asked about my medication and I said it was for schizophrenia and she said it is an automatic disqualification. She didn’t even ask me any questions and had a nurse come in and had me sign for disqualification. Keep in mind, my schizophrenia is controlled and I only had a meltdown one time and I even had an appointment with a social security disability doctor prior and he said I probably went through trauma and not schizophrenic. Should I get a form from that social security doctor and give to the medical DOT doctor? Also, can I be reconsidered even though she already disqualified me?
@ Kay
The answer to both of your questions is yes, maybe. And get medical release forms from your prescribing doctors and your psychologist.
Does a school bus driver who is diagnosed with vertigo by their primary doctor. Then cleared to return by their primary doctor.
Does this driver also need to be seen by a DOT physician before returning to work even though they are not yet do for their DOT physical?
If so where is this in writing?
@ Cynthia A J
If the condition required that the driver be taken from behind the wheel for any illness or injury, then a new medical card is required. That is a FMCSA requirement. As a school bus driver, not a class A – interstate cmv operator, he may not fall under the federal regulations, but in the states variances. Check with your local drivers licensing department for your states regulations.
I was diagnosed with vertigo December 2016 i was not driving at the time. I had no other problems with the vertigo since the diagnosis. In August of 2017 i got a job driving. The company allowed me to use the medical card i already had. August 19th i had an accident. Not from an episode of vertigo. Am i at fault?
I was diagnosed with bells palsy recently and have been a petroleum fuel hauler for over 15years, does my condition disqualify me from retaining my CDL, or passing a medical exam, and/or haul hazmat material/petroleum?
@ Lenn R
If the condition does not interfere with your ability to safely operate a CMV, then you should do fine. Bells palsy will usually run its course in a few months and then appear to go away or go into remission.
I was diagnosed with nerve damaged in my right shoulder and arm . I can use it but its painful can I still be dot certified.
Does a DOT Physician have a right to obtain My fmla application paperwork, that was created by my psychiatrist at my request, from my employer in order to issue (renew) my Medical card .
@ Lawrence A H
No, you should bring that information with you at the time of the DOT examination. It is not the CME’s responsibility to acquire the information from anyone but you. The CME may request a medical release form from your doctor so that he can make a solid final decision regarding your medical status as a capable driver.
Do prescribed antidepressants automatically disqualify someone from driving a truck? I am on 300 mg of Welbutrin daily and did not pass the drug screening exam at the CDL school because of that.
Is the problem with all antidepressants, just some of the dosage?
@ Rachelle F
Not an automatic disqualification, but medical release forms and the ability to pass a drug screen will help. Get a release form from your prescribing doctor. That helps answer many questions. First it explains the medications found in the drug screen and you could possibly pass the test and you will need information for the DOT examiner for him/her to make a final decision regarding you and your situation.
I have bipolar disorder for several years and am taking a medication called Fanapt. I’ve been taking it for over 2 years. The examiner was concerned because he said the medication treats seizures. My treating doctor wrote it was not given for seizures. Now he wants her write I can drive, she doesn’t want to write that and I don’t understand it. What are my options? Do I have any? I’ve been driving for 2 years would it make a difference if I downgraded to a Class B? Help! I don’t know what to do!
@ John
If your prescribing doctor is indicating that the medications are not being used to control seizures, then your examiner should be able to move forward on the certification process. It is not your prescribing doctors responsibility to sign off on this. You may want to go for a second opinion, if the DOT examiner is still reluctant.
My friend injured the back of the head and neck and now has migraines which never had and unfortunately was terminated due to restrictions and the neurologist released with restrictions due to the migraines which takes prescription sumatriptan succ 100mg for it and can only work during daytime not sure when they might fully release or if capable of being released to full duty. Cdl A holder and is due for new dot card soon should my friend take the dot physical or wait to see what happens with medication and migraines or would the dot doctor disqualify or deny the medical card due to the restrictions.
@ Lesley
Your friend will not pass a class A medical certification examination due to the restrictions.
Is Multiple Sclerosis a automatic CDL disqualifier or can it be conditional with a neurologists approval and continued supervision, combined with a passing DOT psychical exam?
No it is not. You will need to do some serious legwork depending on how difficult the medical examiner wants to make it on you as they will want to shift the liability off onto your neurologist. This may force you be have to undergo a neurological assessment for driving. Takes 2 hours in the lab and two hours behind the wheel. I just completed this in central Ohio last week. Also they will only certify you for 6 months and then you have to do it all over again.
Yes, this Medical Examiner is extremely difficult. He has said no to me 2x’s. After two Neurologists have approved me as Fit for Duty.
I’m using my Union and now I will need to get an exam from a 3rd party neurologist. If this exam passes in my favor then according to the Unions by-laws I am supposed to be going back to work. I’m sure I will pass this exam but, I’m still worried that they will try and use this medical examiner opinion against me and I’ll remain Unemployed.
@ Desmond L
If you have a valid medical certification card, then you should be fine for the cdl. Check with your local drivers license department for final confirmation too.
If someone has had a CDL class A for 20 plus years and they go to see a Behavioral Therapist to discuss problems and possible depression, but do not take any medications for this, Does that need to be reported at the next CDL physical? And if so, does this cause the CDL class A renewal to be denied?
@ Burb
If you are not taking any medications and only when in for an opinion, then simply answer all the questions on the medical form honestly. CDL maintenance is fulfilled with a valid medical certificate.
had a stroke in sept 2017 doctors say i;m ok to return to work iAM CDL driver over the road..but employer states drivers must be off duty for 1year after stroke..can not find dot reg on this any help would be greatly helpfull thanks
@Dave
FMCSA guidelines are asking for a one year waiting period following a stroke. This is due to the fact that some stroke patients have additional symptoms following the first stroke that make them a safety risk.
Our son is a high functioning autistic, he has Asperger’s syndrome. He has his CDL class A license, he recently completed a course at West Georgia Tech. As part of his medication, he takes Vyvanse, which is a Class 2 narcotic.
My question is…. Can companies choose to not hire him because of this medication and the possible liability?
@ Brian
Yes, companies are allowed to impose stricter regulations then the FMCSA.
Thank you.
I was told I could not drive otr for 1 year after a stroke but I could drive locally. What peremiters classify a job as local vs otr?
@ Richard
If you are going to drive intra-state only, it will be indicated on your medical card as such. Federal gets strange when it comes to what is classed as intra-state and interstate commerce. If you stay within the states boundary lines and the materials that you are hauling start and stay within the state, then it’s intra-state. all else is classed as interstate. You should check with your local drivers license department to confirm your states guidelines.
If I fail to disclose an event in my medical history such as a stroke could my cdl be in jeapordy?
@ Richard
Falsifying information on a federal form could cost you your CDL.
My husband suffered a concussion at work in September. He was cleared to go back to work by his neuroloigist last week. He went to get his DOT physical today and they told him it would be 2 years. He did not have a seizure and is only on migraine medications as a precaution. Is this true he has to wait 2 years?
I was told by the company DOT doctor, that I could not get a DOT health card for 2 months, due to being on Melizine for 10 days due to vertigo, I live in North Carolina and drive a transit bus. Is this true, and if not how can i fight it?
I have a history of hydrocephaulus, but it is maintained by a VP shunt. Does this disqualify from obtaining DOT Medical clearance?
I took my CDL two weeks ago and passed it the first time. I had applied for a school bus driver position, filled out the CDL application and gave DMV the medical waiver that the school board gave me. I also listed my health conditions, lupus, fibromyalgia and the medications that I had been prescribed on an as needed basis. Lyrica, Oxycodone, Lunesta, Arava, and Benlysta. I was then told that I couldn’t get my learners and my Rhematologist would have to complete a medical form. My doctor has completed the form but stated my prescriptions eere on a as needed basis only. She couldn’t state if the medication affected me when I drove etc. I was told by the school board that their waiver should have avoided all of this drama. What are your opinios about this?
I went for a physical today and was told I may not be cleared to drive any longer since I had chiari malformation surgery 8 years ago. My neurologist cleared me and I have had checkups to see if everything is good and it is. Is there a regulation that says I can’t drive? I have been driving in Washington state since 1993.
I am a diesel mechanic and own my own business. I have my CDL to test drive trucks that have been repaired. I had an angiogram after having a stress test and ended up getting 3 stents. They did however say that there was a brain “snow shower” (stroke?) shown on my MRI. They do not know if it happened during or after the angiogram and stents. I did not and have not had any physical symptoms of a stroke. I had the angiogram and stents on March 31, 2017 and was cleared to go back to work on April 4, 2017. I have not driven a cdl truck on the road since then because of the liability. The only medicine that I take are Plavix, baby aspirin and Repatha shots. Will there be a waiting period to get my medical card.
I am trying to obtain a NYS CDL B.intrastate I was in the last year diagnosed with sleep apnea and recently early onset demntia,I am on medications for these and have no issues. Are these going to be cause of denial of a CDL?
I recently had a TIA (Sept 7th, 2017), I was cleared by the treating physician, and the neurologist, the Doctor who does my D.O.T physical told me I have be recertified and that there is a one year waiting period. I’m having a hard time finding any regulation that corroborates his statement. We are dealing with Wisconsin D.O.T and/or Federal regulations. I am a class A cdl holder.
would you please help answer my question?
I’m dealing with the same isssues. I believe there going on the information found in this link here: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/medical/expert-panel-recommendations-stroke-and-commercial-motor-vehicle-driver-safety
I had a stroke in March this year.Had to come up with my own rehab due to the the v.a.didnt with it.I walk,talk,jog if it needs be ,I exercise.Eat like a rabbit,no smoking,the whole 9 yards kinda thing.Seen neurologist and did mri.came out that I can drive,was released.Took all paperwork to md mva (hand carried it.)Was turned down,told to return in 1 year!as of now,3months and waiting on March 6th,2018.
I had a TIA in March of 2014. It is Mandatory by Federal DOT that you must take a minim of 1 year off of driving any type of commercial vehicles. I also had to go through the pre trip and skills test before I got my CDL reinstated.
In my early 20’s I had a head injury and was required to get a medical liscence. When it expired I did not bother to renew it. Now I am 59 and have been seizure and medication free for 33 years and have not seen a Nuerologist in that long also. I have moved to the country and find I am in need of driving again. How can I get a drivers liscence, How do I find a doctor if I will need to pass a physical to get one
Hi I’m glad I found you guys on the internet! I’ve been going to truck driving school have my learner’s permit. Supposedly the company that is sponsoring me does hair follicle exams. I have already passed a DOT physical and have my medical certificate. My question is this. The company that is sponsoring me is overly stringent on all counts meaning I will have to have another DOT physical urine sample and hair follicle test. I have paid out of pocket for my own hair follicle test and passed, also recent multiple urinalysis’s have passed. I have a history of self-diagnosed anxiety and depression and took meds such as antidepressants and buspirone in the past. I’ve been off these meds for quite some time as in months and years and do not have any abnormal problems with anxiety and depression. Even when I thought I did it turns out in my mind at least and my doctors, that it was all relative to a dying relative, family problems, and a very poor job. Those problems have now been eliminated. Even when I was on the meds they did not work well if it all because obviously there were external causes that needed to be eliminated with coping skills and no medication can help in that situation in my opinion and the doctors. That being said I am confident I have the coping skills that I needed in the first place. Another thing I’ve read is that when an individual suffers these conditions due to grief it is not a disqualifier. Is that true? My condition is non-existent and certainly pales in comparison to the many horror stories I’ve read here. I plan to not disclose to the question on the DOT physical form asking if I’ve ever had nervousness anxiety or depression since I’m not on any medication and not having any problems, passed a hair follicle and urine test. The biggest problem appears to be here is when people are honest they don’t get the job so I’m told by school recruiters. What I also read is once that you commit to not disclose one needs to continue to do so as the forms are uploaded and any differentiation between one or the other might throw up a red flag. In my research on the internet and even your site I might add, it appears that it would be one in a million for me to have any problems with employers or the Dot. I’m wondering if they were to request my medical records both employers and Dot, how far back can they reasonably and legally request for such medical records. I thought my privacy would protect me due to HIPAA regulations, but found out that the Dot has a way around that. Isn’t that special!? Also a case that has been made that to allow people access to my medical records would compromise me in many ways. Many blogs and threads say do not disclose something so minor to a trucking company and if they persist go elsewhere for employment. On the other hand these blogs and threads appeared to be quite old and some cases and there are even hints that most if not all trucking companies will demand your medical records. I find it quite hypocritical that these same trucking companies would be so intrusive when many of them are unscrupulous as to purposely overload trucks weight wise, keep drivers out past their maximum drive time allowed,provide bad equipment Etc and force drivers to do innumerable illegal and risky things as well as constantly con and scam honest hard-working drivers. So what do you think Docs? take two aspirins don’t disclose to the devil and call you in the morning? Many thanks in advance. Ronnie
PS. This is all coming together super fast hope to hear from you soon so I can apply the best strategy to this situation with success.
I fell off the top step in my work semi it was freezing rain so I pulled over to a safe place. Found out 2 years later that I had a cyst on my brain. The surgeon operated on it and removed it. Never had a heart attack or epilepsy. Now the work company doctor said I can’t drive for one year. I want find anything saying that. I did find a 60 day period. I am in great health.
@Gary
With proper documentation / medical release from your doctor, go to another medical examiner for a second opinion.
Okay, Thank you for answering my question.
Think that might fall under a mild TBI injury with a 1 year wait.
I hit the back of head on concrete and was unconscious for some time. This happened a year ago. Had a 72 hour EEG and it ruled out any seizures. The treating occupational doctor said I couldn’t drive for 5 years due to a seizure, but after the EEG ruled it out he changed and said that the reason I couldn’t drive was because I had some bleeding in the brain, I think he called it petikei ( small blood spots). Would this bench me for 5 years?
@Paul
It shouldn’t bench you for 5 year, but you’ll need supporting documentation from your treating physician with the EEG, to help the CME make a final decision.
I fell and hit the back of my head on the cement, no broken skin, just a big lump, never lost consciousness, and never had a seizure. My husband took me to the emergency room, to find out that I had cracked my skull open and bled into the brain a little. My neurologist released me to drive school bus on May 1, 2017,the last 3 weeks of school. Last week I went for my physical and was denied until March 2018 because he said that I could have a seizure. If I was released by my neurologist do I still have to wait with the proper documentation from my doctor?
@Linda
You’re a school bus driver. You do not full under FMCSA requirements for class A drivers. You’ll need to check with your local state drivers license department.
Hello I’ve been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy for quite some time. I’ve been driving for 10 years and my disease is starting to get worse and worse but I don’t let it slow me. I do a lot of heavy hauling and chain stuff down all the time and hook and unhook doubles 6-8 times a day. I’m very active even though I have a hard time doing stuff. I walk around with a limp and have a little hard time getting in and out of the truck. I don’t feel that it limits my ability to drive a truck. I’ve been in a truck since I was born and with my disibilities I’m still better then most drivers on the road. My question is that if I tell my dot physical examiner what I have, will I not be able to get my physical? Or is there special exemptions that they would give me? I see drivers out there that can hardly move and get in and out of trucks that are still driving. Besides my muscle disorder I’m one of the most healthiest people out there. Ever since I was a kid alls I’ve wanted to do was drive truck and I’d be heart broken if I couldn’t.
@Mark
You should be truthful on your health history form. If your condition does not limit your ability to perform your duties as a CMV operator then you shouldn’t have any problem. If your condition is limiting you would want to check with FMCSA for a possible waiver.
Does Parkinson’s disease automatically disqualify you to have a CDL license in Florida per DOT rules and regulations.
@Kristy
It will depend on the class CDL that you are going for. Class A interstate or class B or C, each will have different requirements and will fall under different governing bodies. If you are not going for a class A, then you would need to check with the local drivers license department in your state.
Have a cyst in my brain. My last surgery was in 2000 to replace the shunt that was installed to fix my problem. Have had my CDLs for 15 years and a DOT medical exam every two years. And every medical examiner has passed me with no problems. This last place that I have went to his require me to get a MRI and will not pass me on my medical exam until I get one. Has something changed in the last two years?
@Josh
All you should need is a medical release form from your primary neurologist explaining your situation and to help provide supporting documentation. The CME should be looking for supporting data, not requesting an MRI. It is outside of the FMCSA’s guidelines for the CME program.
If a driver has been hospitalized for shortness of breath, Is he required to retake his DOT physical before he can drive a CMV?
@Richard
Yes. And make sure you have a medical release from your doctor for return to work.
I’ve had my CDL since 2001. I had an acoustic neuroma removed in 1999. I have disclosed this info every time my physical was due. This year they are telling me I need a waiver from my personal physician that states that I will not have an episode while driving. I have never had any adverse effects since the surgery. Do I need this waiver, or is there somewhere in the guidelines I can show my doctor that this is not a problem.
@Faust
You don’t need a waiver, just a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation and that you have had no issues.
Yes I have a CDL A license and my medical card experience in August this year. And I’m out on Medical leave. How long do I have until I have to renew my medical card. I know that I can’t drive without my medical card. Just trying to find out how long I have until I lose my class A license. So I don’t have to go back and start over again
@Jeffrey
Depending on the state you are in the time lag differs – but – your CDL will be downgraded not long after your medical card expires.
Contact your local drivers license to see what you can do to maintain your CDL. They may allow you to self-certify “excepted” until you start driving again, or for a certain amount of time.
I was diagnosed with vertigo back in April and have been on temporary disability since then. My card expired yesterday. I cannot get it until I’m released from my doctor which hopefully will be in July. I have had my CDL for 17 years and don’t want to have to go through all of that again. Is there any kind of medical waiver or anything like that so all I have to do is get my DOT card? I live in Tennessee. Thank you!
@Sonja
Contact your local drivers license department to explain that you are out for medical reasons. They should have a process in place to take care of this until you have a new medical card.
How about bipolar. I’ve had my cdl for almost 3 years now. I was diagnosed with ptsd almost 2 years ago and the medicine I was taking made the doc only cert me for a year. No biggie. Now this year …actually a couple of weeks ago I was diagnosed as bipolar and added an extra medicine. The first being depakote and the second being effexor? Is this gonna cause me to loose my certification and my cdl???
@Billy
It is going to raise questions, so take as much supporting documentation as possible from your doctor explaining your condition and situation. And make sure you have a medical release form from your doctor also.
I fainted @ work 8 months ago. I frequently have to bend up and down, got a little dizzy and pass out. That’s the only time that ever happened to me. It was extremely hot that day also. doctor put syncope which he thought was do to anxiety and fear being it was my 2nd day on the job. Does this disqualify me from getting my cdl?
@Brandi
With proper documentation from your doctor explaining your situation and it being a one time incident, you should be OK, if all else is with in normal limits.
This may be a little lengthy. My son had a motorcycle accident 6 years ago and was 13 minutes without oxygen to his brain. With that being said he has minimal myclonic tremors. He is on medication to slow down these tremors and they are anti seizure meds even though he does not have seizures. He has never had seizures from the get go. Only small tremors. He has been on this medication since the accident happened in 2012. He also takes 1 mg of clonazapam in the evening. Will he be disqualified in trying to get his CDC license? He would like to drive concrete or rock trucks for an aggregate company in the area. Will he be turned away from getting a license?
@Robyn
He will need a medical release form from his doctor explaining his situation. Then, based on the class drivers license he would be required to have to perform the duties of the job he wants, he would need to check with his local drivers license department. He may be restricted to intra-state only, based on his medications alone, but he would then fall under his states variances and not FMCSA. Good luck.
My husband had bariatric sleeve surgery a month ago. Is he able to get his re-certification to return to work if his Dr has cleared him? Thank you
@N D
Once he has been released and has a medical release form in hand from his doctor explaining his situation, he should be fine.
I’ve been a suffer of migraines for years and just recently 2/1/17 had a Carotid Artery Dissection and had 3 stents in my interior carotid artery. I’ve since been on Plavix for blood thinning and aspirin. I’m on Butalbital/Acetaminophen/Caffeine for migraine pain and Nortriptyline for the migraine. I take Prochlorperazine for nausea, shaky feeling and to help get to sleep at night. I am currently taking Atorvastatin for colesterol management and Lisinopril-HCTZ for blood pressure. Will any of these medications affect my ability to pass my DOT physical If so which ones.
@Scott
Your medications are going to raise questions, but your over all physical conditions are going to stand in your way of passing a FMCSA guidelines physical examination. It’s going to be a safety issue, in your case.
My neurologist believes I might be hdrocephalic. Will this cause me to fail my next physical
@Kevin
First you want a confirming diagnosis and determine if it will effect your overall abilities. Then based on those findings would this question have relevance. At present there is not enough information to give you an answer.
Does a VP Shunt automatically decline you for DOT medical card for Intrastate driving. I have no seizures and have never been on seizure medication. My surgery was in January 2017 and my neurosurgeon has cleared me to return to complete duties that include driving. The DOT Dr said no because I have a shunt and did not say I could bring back a form from my dr to give him more information.
@Jim
If you are an intra-state only driver then you fall under the state’s variances and not FMCSA interstate guidelines. So check with your local drivers license department and ask them if there are restrictions. If not, then take a medical release form from your doctor to your next medical certification examination and make sure you explain to the examiner that you are intra-state driving, not an OTR driver.
Diagnosed with a chronic subdural hematoma after a fall. Had a craniotomy to remove it. No seizures before, during or after procedure. Was told that I would have to wait 3 years and then take a drivers test due to it being a moderate head injury. What can I do?
@Tim
You could try getting a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and his working prognosis. The CME is just following the FMCSA guidelines and can use his own personal judgement to make modifications, but he will need as much supporting documentation as possible before he will vary from the guidelines.
My son is going thru cdl class and getting his hazmat endorsement. At age 16 he was taken to the hospital and they say was an involuntary commitment, but was later transferred that day to a mental
health facility, and he was told he had to the next day to change it to a voluntary commitment to which he did make the change, with no problems since then. Will this effect his hazmat endorsement, and if so what course of action do we need to do to get the change?
@Dave
How long ago was this an issue? Medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation today should be sufficient, if there has been a lengthy lag time. If recent, then a release form from the neurologist will be needed.
I have Bell’s Palsy.
My Neurologist completely released me back to work and drive a commercial vehicle.
My company had me go and retake my DOT PHYSICAL.
I completely passed it.
The doctor’s office is now telling me due to the ” New DOT regulations ” that I have to take my DOT PHYSICAL every year instead of every 2 years.
But they are not showing me these new regulations in written form.
I really would like to see and know what this regulation says about Bell’s Palsy.
@Robert
New DOT regulations? Ask the examiner to see that in writing. If you have a medical release form in hand and your doctor’s working prognosis indicates no known issues, then it is falling directly to the CME and his interpretation of the neurological section of the DOT guidelines.
Does peripheral neuropathy disqualify me from a DOT medical card
@Kenneth
With supporting documentation and the ability to perform the duties of a cmv operator, with no potential safety issues, you could do just fine.
If your condition prevents you from doing your job safely, then it will become an issue. Get a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and a working prognosis, that will be a huge help to the DOT examiner.
hospitalized with severe depression > how long will this cost me
is prozac ok 40 mg
I was hospitalized with severe depression with suicide attempt > i was misdiagnosed with a large deadly melanoma. that brought on the acute depression . im on prozac now and doing well.20 year driver > will i have to sit out.
had an svt take atenolol
@Michael
You are going to need a medical release form from your doctor stating that you have your condition under control and for how long it has been controlled with your present medications. Also, if possible, have you doctor give his working prognosis too.
I suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage in February, never lost consciousness, never had a seizure or stroke and had it coiled. I was realeased from the hospital at the end of February and as of March 21st was released to work from my primary physician and neurologist. I went to have my CDL re certified and the doctor said I had to wait 6 months. Is this an automatic rule or is it a case by case? Can I go to another doctor and get a second opinion? Would having my doctor submit a medical authorization help? Also, I have another aneurysm that may need to be coiled as a precautionary measure, if I do this do I need to wait another 6 months or since it didn’t rupture would I be okay?
@Pat
The FMCSA guidelines have the recommendations, but a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation and his working prognosis will be very helpful to the examiner. If the examiner, with all the documentation in hand, feels that you are not a safety risk, then he has the authority to move forward. If you have do have another aneurysm that is going to need to be repaired, you may want to get it out of the way now, otherwise you set the entire thing up for question again.
A week ago I was put on Celexa for depression and atenolol for anxiety and I am interested in getting my Cdl to become a otr truck driver. Will this stop me from passing my first dot physical?
@Inquiring
More than likely. You would need to be on these medications for some period of time. The examiners are looking for stable conditions and supporting documentation before releasing a driver. You could check with a local DOT examiner and ask what your wait times are, for future planning. Good luck
i had an episode of syncope and wrecked my car. my doctor put me on keppra 1000mg twice a day b/c of an irregularity on my 72hr eeg. does this disqualify me from driving d.o.t regulated vehicle. i do not have or need a cdl for my job.
@Bob
You will need to check with your local drivers license department to get the best information in regards to your situation.
Is peripheral neuropathy an automatic disqualification for a dot certification. It is minor, positive spatial awareness and can feel pressure just 2/6 bilat diminished spots on foot pin pick sensation exam? It is stable no change for 10yrs and is a side affect from the chemo received for nonhodgekins lymphoma which is still in remission.
@Sara
Start with a medical release form from your neurologist explaining your condition and situation. That will be a great help for the CME’s decision making process. Good luck
Can I drive a truck for a company as a job if I had a TBI caused by a bicycle accident 3 years ago and the hospital put me in a medically induced coma, and I’ve never had any seizure? Plus, I drive my own car and van and my own motorcycle with my kids?
@Jason
As long as you have a medical release from from your neurologist releasing you with no restrictions, then you would be good to go for the DOT medical examination.
Is 2 level cervical spine fusion a diqualifying condition
@William
Only if it causes uncontrolled pain, or other safety issues. Also, as part of the drivers job description, you should have a relatively good range of motion in the cervical spine. Fortunately most of the range of motion in the neck occurs in the upper cervical segments. So if the fusion is in the lower C spine, then you will probably be fine. Good Luck
Had brain surgery avm removal do you have to wait a year live in ny
@Tom
Have you fully recovered and has your doctor released you to return to work?
If so, then have him complete a medical release form for you explaining your condition and probable prognosis. The CME will be most concerned with the possibilities of a stroke. That is where the waiting period comes into play. If your doctor feels that there is no likelihood of a stroke, then make sure he states that in the release form for you. This one fall into the guidelines gray areas and needs as much supporting information as possible for the CME to make his final decision. Good Luck
My name is Luis. I had a pituitary adenoma removed on November13. I had to do a DOT test because I was out for more than 30 days. They told me I have to wait a year. Please I need some info about this issue. Thanks.
During a recent MRI following ear surgery my doctor discovered a blood clot in my head and put me on Enoxaparin shot every 12 hours to thin my blood. Does this disqualify me from a DOT card?
@Mike
Are you still using the medication? If not, how long have you been off the meds? We need more information to best answer your question.
If a driver had an accident that put him in a coma for several days, but since then has not had any neurological problems and has a clearance from his neurologist, would he be disqualified from obtaining his state of FL medical card? This event happened 7 years ago. Also, the driver would work for a municipality and only engage in intrastate commerce.
Thank you,
@Jan
There should not be any real issues with this situation. Especially since he is an intra-state only driver, he falls under the states variances.
I currently have my cdl from Pennsylvania . I have not been driving commercially since August 2015. I had one time unprovoked seizure in August 15 the neurologist I went to put me on seizure med for a few months and I’m currently NOT on them now since July 2016 . I was wondering if there is a waiting period to get my medical card to continue driving. And if there is what would I need to go back to driving commercially.
@Dan
Tough one here. You have a 5 year waiting period, once off the medications and seizure free before you could go back to interstate driving.
That being said, you may want to check into driving intra-state only. You get to keep you cdl and are only limited by the states variances rather than FMCSA. It is the best opinion that we are aware of at this time for you. Good Luck
Hello,
I hope you can help. About 2 years ago I got really dizzy at home, my wife panicked and called an ambulance which took me to the emergency room. The doctor doesn’t know what happened, but on my medical records it states possible veritgo. They did give me two prescriptions, which I’ve never used. That was the first and only time thats happened to me in my life. I’ve never experienced that prior or since. Will I still be able to get my CDL? Thank you in advance.
@Don
It should not be a problem. Just explain that it was a one time episode and has never happened again. You should also have your primary care doctor fill in a medical release form stating exactly the same thing.
Thank you!
I have had a VP Shunt for six years and just had to have a surgery for the valve and catheter to be replaced with new. I am now being told I can not pass the DOT physical exam and drive commercial trucks for one year after the surgery date. I can’t find this information anywhere to confirm. Is this true?
@Spenser
It falls in a very gray zone with the FMCSA. After the repair and once fully recovered, you could get a medical release form signed by the surgeon and neurologist indicating the prognosis and possible ill effects of the repair. With a release form from your doctors in hand, you may have a better chance because the CME now has more information to work with and the needed information is now coming from the neurologist and the surgeon. Good Luck
I was diagnosed with service-connected case of PTSD about a year ago which was after my last DOT physical I’m on 50 mg of sertraline and 150 mg of biuproperen?(Wellbutrin) as well as diagnosed with sleep apnea. I know what I need for the sleep apnea and can pass that part no problem, what I’m worried about is the PTSD and meds I’m on getting me dq’d from driving. What should I take to the medical exam to get my best chances of being cleared.
@Ryan
Make sure you take a medical release form from your prescribing doctor and a release from your ptsd doctor explaining your medications, usage and how long you have been on the medication. That will help the CME make a more informed decision regarding your driving status.
Had a tia was shut down for 1 YEAR by company doctor I have successfully completed the year with out any problems received medical release and obtained a 1year med card from a certified dot doctor my company would not accept med card they wanted me to use there doctor they contract with do I have to use there doctor.
@Andrew
All depends on what their company policy is. Are they going to pay for the re-examination? If they do, then you may need to go through with their examiner. If not, then the medical card that you have is valid and should do.
I passed out while giving blood will this disqualify me for a dot med card.?
@John
It should not be a major issue. If there is any question, then have your medical doctor write a medical release letter explaining the situation and go from there.
Can a CMV driver who takes Zyprexa for Paranoid Schizophrenia be certified? With doctor note, can he be certified? Thanks.
@John
You will need documentation from your prescribing doctor and a copy of the prescription. You should need a medical release form from your diagnosing doctor too. The medication and the condition are going to pose questions, so be as prepared as possible before you go in. GOOD LUCK
I was diagnosed with depression several years ago and was on medication. I stopped taking it before I became a driver and have never put it on my medical card form. I’m needing to get back on whatever med I can to drive but all the reports I’ve read say the doctor will need one year of stable results before allowing me to drive again. Is their any way I can get on my meds and not deal with the year of unemployment?
@Henry
A lot will depend on your doctors diagnosis and what medications he places you on. If this is not a serious condition and all he needs to prescribe is a mild medication, then the CME needs a medical release form from the doctor explaining your situation and the needs for the meds you are taking. The CME may request a short waiting period to make sure you will have no ill effects from the medication. Check with your primary doctor first and see what his thinking is – How severe is the diagnosis and how heavy are the medications. With the information in front of you before you do anything tells you where you are and what you are going to have to go through to continue driving. Good Luck
I have a friend that had a tumor removed from his brain, the day after the surgery, his arm shook uncontrollably for a few minutes so the Dr. administered so anti seizure meds to control it, (nothing was due to epilepsy). Once on the meds though he has to take them for a few weeks an have now started to back down the dosage. He only had the one episode right after the surgery, and is now on Levetiracetam 1000 MG max of 2000 MG a day. Once he is off the meds, how long does he need to be seizure free before he can resume driving? I’ve read different answers, one says two years without a seizure, and another says 5 years, but nothing is specific to this issue (Surgery induced), can you tell me what the guidelines are for a case like this?
@Bob
Part of the answer would require knowing what type of tumor was removed. There are a multitude of answers from there to address your question. Also some of the basic side-effects of the medications now being taken will raise serious safety questions too. More information is needed.
I am bipolar. I have been medically stable for over seven years with no issues and my doctor will support me on that. Is this going to disqualify me on my DOT physical?
@Max
It should not hold you back, as long as you have all the supporting documentation with you at the time of your examination. The CME needs medical releases and your doctors explanation regarding your case and a working prognosis.
I was told just yesterday I had a ruptured disc and spinal stenosis. The doctor released me with no restrictions to go back to work. The company says I’m medically disqualified because it said I needed to follow up with my primary care doctor. So is this a condition that disqualifys me?
@Chris
Not a reason to be disqualified, but does require a medical release form from your doctor and a new DOT medical certificate to determine fit for duty status.
I’m just wondering if an autism level 1 diagnosis is a disqualification for being a CDL driver. I was a school bus driver for 2 years but have left that, still current on CDL. Was diagnosed autistic in the last year. Don’t know if or how that changes things.
@Emily
It all depends on a few things. What class drivers license do you have? How extensive does the condition effect your daily lifestyle and what type of support system do you have in place?
Diagnosis names a condition but does not give the truest picture of what your capabilities really are. So, some more information is needed to guide you in the right direction.
Advice to anyone reading this forum. If you want to drive a commercial vehicle DO NOT even think of mentioning any disqualifying conditions to your doctor. If blood pressure is an issue take your meds and quit salt the week before your physical. And when your doctor asks how your feeling you say,and this is important, like a million bucks. Don’t check ANY boxes unless you want to lose your job or not get the job or be sitting home not getting paid. Remember, you feel like a million bucks!
@Lesson…..
Really?
So this is a driver telling you to lie on your federal DOT physical examination form. Not real sure that this is the best policy.
The CME’s job is to determine medical fitness for duty, not take your ass out of the truck. You guys have the single most important job in the USA. Yes, we can agree that some of the CMEs still do not have a clear picture of the FMCSA guidelines and what they are supposed to be looking for. It is difficult for the CMEs to do their job right now because FMCSA pulled the guidelines out of existence two-plus years ago for “revamping” and no one has seen them since.
But lying on the form does not protect you from any health issues and if found out could cost you your job and your driving career.
Why not find a CME that understands the driving community and what your job consists of so he/she can make the best, informed decision that he/she can.
That way you and the CME, both, keep everybody out there safe.
I would agree that lying on the med form is definitely not a good idea. In this day and age, everything is documented and stored forever. Should the lying driver be involved in a significant crash, the adverse party’s legal council will undoubtedly find out and barbeque the driver on the witness stand. Consider that many crashes now involve both civil litigation and criminal prosecution, and you have a scenario where the driver potentially faces jail time.
Hello, I suffer from Constant Migraines/Headaches, I take meds for them. Will this disqualify me from getting my Dot card renewed?
@Chris
In and of itself, it may not be a disqualifier. But it is going to raise questions about what meds, how often and how well you can safely handle a commercial motor vehicle with this symptomatic picture. Get a medical release from your prescribing doctor before you go for the examination.
I have peripheral diabetic neuropathy in my feet with a little bit of tingling but not bad am I disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle CDL?
@Ray
You want to have your neurologist complete your medical release form explaining how your conditions effects your neuropathy. With that information hand, the CME can make a more informed decision. Your diabetes already limits your medical card to one year at the time and your condition is progressive, so he may keep an eye on you and your condition. But you are not automatically disqualified.
Does the treatment ECT disqualify me from keeping or obtaining a CDL
@Dan
It is going to cause an extensive line of questioning, so make sure you have a medical release form from your doctors explain the need and results, with a prognosis, in hand before going for you examination.
my husband went for a random drug test after he had his proton treatment and could past his water so they said that he would have to stay there for three hours until he past his water they never told him if he left that they would report him as not wanting to take the test so the company he work for told him he could not work until he get in touch with SRI so we don’t know how to do that so we need a letter and the company he work need a letter.
If your husband left the clinic before providing an adequate sample, he was probably reported as a ‘Refusal to Test’ and this is disqualifying. Unless he could get this action rescinded, he will need to seek out a SAP and work through a program of recovery. The company that let him go is required to provide your husband with a letter that lists several qualified SAPs (Substance Abuse Professional) near home, allowing him to choose where to go. This is a very unfortunate situation, but the fact that the clinic did not officially notify your husband that he couldn’t leave will most likely not relieve him of the burden of following the DOT mandates regarding this process.
I was diagnosed with PTSD and bipolar type II as a service connected disability about 10 years ago. I have never been hospitalized or have any suicidal/homicidal ideations. I was prescribed divaloprex (depakote) about two years ago. The Dr. wanted to slowly get me off the medication (he said less is better.) I have not needed any medication in the last year or more. I have been completely sober and going to group therapy for some time now (at least six months.) I have two questions, should I get a medical opinion/release from my VA psychologist if these conditions will be a red flag? Is it better to be on medications or not in respect to qualifying for a CA medical examiner’s card? Thank you for your time.
@Nick
You will need medical release forms from your doctors before you go for the DOT medical certificate. With proper documentation you should be alright, as long as everything else is within normal limits.
I am trying to find the correct answer for a driver that has had a mild stroke. Is it “recommended” or
“required” that he sit out for one year before driving again? I have been told both ways. The newest version of this question that I can find was in 2009. ( Recommended )
Have there been any changes?
@Angie
It is “highly recommended”! – but – with full supporting documentation from your neurologist the CME can make a more informed decision.
I was diagnosed with et essential tremors is this condition something i will lose my medical card over
@George
You probably want to get a medical release from your neurologist to take to your next medical exam.
Can i get a 2 year dot medical card after having a severe concussion and fracture skull within the last 4 months?
@Richard
No. You’ll need a medical release form from your neurologist and it is highly unlikely that you will get a 2-year medical card.
Someone with a major Depressive Disorder and has had ECT treatments last one 3 months ago – no current meds can they have a DOT card?
@Penny
The condition is going to raise many questions. It is doubtful that you will be able to go any further until you have a medical release form from the doctor stating that they are ready to release the driver to normal driving activities. A qualified medical release form will be the first step in this process.
Does anyone know the DOT regulations regarding suicidal thoughts and ideations? I am finding posts about mental illness, however not about suicidal thoughts and ideations. My husband was placed on unpaid medical leave by Greyhound in March after the DOT doctor for the company failed his medical examination due to suicidal thoughts. They are saying they can hold him out six months to a year based on DOT regulations. Does anyone know where I can find these specific DOT regulations?
@Julia
This one is at the examiners discretion. Something must have been said that put the examiner on alert. You could try getting a medical release form from your doctor stating that your hubby is a pretty normal guy and is not under psychiatric care for any known suicidal tendencies.
If I had a Tia a and the doctor writes”to a certain degree of medical certainty I can say thi patient is fit to drive a bus.the doctor is a neurologist ,can I still be forced to wait one year by aa dot certified dr
@Richard
A lot depends on the class license you are presently operating under.
If it is a class A then one year, if it class B or intra-state only, then you fall into the state variances and need to check with your local drivers license department for their opinion on your situation.
I received completed a DOT physical for CRST and the doctor denied my medical card for a unsubstantiated concussion that I had back in Iraq in 2003. The information was provided to the doctor by the VA from the TBI clinic. I have never had a seizure, blurred vision, vertigo, nausea, or anything more severe than a headache in the past 10 years which can usually be attributed to missed doses of my hypertension medication or insufficient fluid intake. Is this a valid reason to deny my medical card and can I rebut it? If so, how and what steps do I need to take?
@Lyndell
If you want you could go some where else for a second opinion. If the VA is supporting the negative findings of a concussion, then the CME should be taking that information into consideration and using it to make their final decision.
My husband has been diagnosed with glioblastoma brain tumor He has had surgery to remove the tumor and is about to start radiation and chemo. Later he will be on a chemo maintenance treatment. His surgeon has said thathat she doesn’t think he should have any problem returning to work. He hauls doubles for a freight company. Will this diagnosis keep him from returning to work?
@Jane
Once fully healed and ready to return to work, he would need a medical release form from the doctors and be able to pass the DOT medical examination for ‘fit for duty’.
He may be restricted to drive intra-state only, all depends on his physical condition at the time of the examination.
Will Bells Palsey patients typically be able to obtain a DOT medical card.
@Andy
Only if the Palsy does not interfere with the safe operation of a commercial motor vehicle.
You may want to get a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation. In and of itself, it is not an instant disqualifier.
Is Parkinson’s Disease (successfully managed with minimal medication) an automatic disqualifier? Just went for my DOT exam and when I put PD (diagnosed two years ago) on the form, he automatically disqualified me, even though I have a release from my neurologist and PD specialized physical therapist.
@Dave
Request a second opinion from someone else. Take all of your documentation with you. It’s a touchy situation, but if the condition is being well managed and you are on a short (one year) medical certificate for ongoing monitoring, then you may be good to go. But you must provide documentation and a medical release form explaining your situation. You would still have to pass all the other aspects of the physical.
I have MCI mild cognitive impairment can I renew my cdl ive had for 25 years
@John
First thing you want to do is a get a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation, and if there are any limiting factors.
With that in hand then go get the DOT medical examination. If there are restrictions, then you may want to check with the drivers license department and see if you can drive intra-state only.
My husband had a CVST back in April, he has no lingering deficits. His last CT, done two weeks ago came back clear, there are no predisposing factors to having another one, no hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or clotting disorders. His neurologist cleared him to drive knowing what he does. The CME would not release him. Is there any way to get him on the road sooner than a year?
@Melisa
Start with a medical release form from the doctor explaining the situation and the procedures that have been taken with all followup test results. With that information in hand, go get a second opinion somewhere else. If everything else checks out, then you should be OK. Maybe limited for ongoing monitoring for a bit, but should be back on the road.
I have Myasthenia Gravis and am being treated with IVIG . How long do I have to be under control before attempting to see DOT doctor for recertification?
@Gary
If your primary physician feels that your condition is stable and fills out a medical release form for you, then you should be alright. You will be limited to one year at the time due to the progressive nature of the condition.
Hi everyone, Look i have a a huge issue with my primary doctor signing medical release form for epilepsy . This Doctor has been giving me the run around . He is aware that i have been Seizure free for over a year recorded and now free of any medication. Todsy i went in to pick up the forms omly to hear him make up more excuses . He made me go on a drug urine random testing , nuerologist and now he says have the nurrologist sign . But the Nuero said he cant becuase i was only there for EEG, EKG,AND Sleep Apnia test. Which all came out to be normal. Today i was so upset becuase he again asked me for urine test and lab work after just 3 weeks of doing those exact test for him. I have no drug past and dont understand why hes consitrating on that issue instead of signing my form .i just decided to walk out and want to know wha i can so please help
@Daniel
You need a medical release form from your treating doctors. One from the neurologist that treated you and one from your primary. The CME is needing information letting him know that you are on no medication and for how long you have been off any anti-seizure medications. And one indicating the length of time that you have been seizure free.
I’m trying to obtain my medical card but due to having myesthaina gravis I failed; it’s been in remission for the past 2 years and I see my neurologist for it. Can she complete the appeal on my behalf and I redo the exam?
@Christopher
Depending on the class drivers license you are going for will depend on your restrictions. Your best bet is to start with a medical release form from your neurologist explaining your condition and his working prognosis.
If you are going for a class A you will need as much information as possible to support your doctors findings.
If you just need a medical card to do around town deliveries, then the medical release should be enough.
I was diagnosed with a concussion and with post concussion syndrome 2 1/2 years ago. I passed my DOT physical 2 years ago. When I recently went to renew my DOT physical, I was disqualified due to the post concussion syndrome issues – cognitive and memory issues. Both my primary care physician and neurologist released me to work but the DOT physician did not. Does this disqualify me from obtaining my medical card?
@Troy
If you have full releases from your neurologist and your primary, then you should be fine. The CME may be over-reading the guidelines, but you are welcome to go for a second opinion any where you like.
Is there a list of medications that are definitely approved to take while driving truck? Something that could help with anxiety and/or depression. I’m not looking for a list of meds that might be approved depending on the Dr., but meds that are cleared by the DOT. Is there such a thing?
@Stephani
There are no ‘approved’ medications.
If you are on medication you will need a medical release from your prescribing doctor, that will help inform the medical examiner who does your physical exam.
See this information on the medical release to better understand the process.
So I had brain surgery for a none cancer cyst back in 10.1.2015. I was off work three weeks doctor released me to go back to work. I have been driving truck for the past six months. I just went to get my medical card renewal and the doctor won’t sign off on it until the talks to the surgeon . even tho I past all the testing. So here is the problem. Both doctors are busy and keep playing phone tag while my old card gets closer and closer to expiring. The d.o.t doctor will not sign the card until they doctor nothing in writing is good enough. I have no idea what to do next? Make an appointment with a different doc to get my card renewal or what? I have to work I have a family
@Shawn
A properly completed doctors release form should be sufficient. The CME does not NEED to talk to the surgeon, all he needs is supporting documentation / information that you are ready to go back to work.
It has been one year since I have had a stroke. The stroke affected my field of vision,my neurologist told me he could not qualify me again to drive a commercial vehicle and that I would have to be qualified by an opthamologist. Don’t know where to start! Should I try to get a CME from my opthamologist or should I start by seeing a DOT physical doctor? I never surrender my CDL license and my DOT card is good til June 2016. I haven’t driven a commercial vehicle since the stroke,just trying to go thru proper procedures to be re qualified.
@Mark
Just have an eye examination with your eye doctor and take that information with you to the DOT examination. Also make sure you have a medical release form from your neurologist releasing you to return to work.
I am submitting my question again because it disappeared, sorry. I was trying to get a DOT certification and was disqualified. I had a stroke 11 years ago but the CME had my neurologist sign a paper saying all was good and he signed it. She then found neuropathy in some med records and I went back to my neurologist and again, he signed that I was ok to do a driving position, two more forms he ok’d. The CME will not reconsider and Im still disqualified. Can I take all my ok’d forms to a new clinic and get a second opinion?
@Lucie
Yes, definitely.
Help.. I have a letter from prescribing physician that I am stable on medication I have been taking for two years.. I am being refused a dot physical after getting the run around .. What can I do about this..
@Chasiaty
Try a second opinion somewhere else.
My neurologist signed off on 3 different papers that I was fit to drive a CMV even tho I had a stroke 11 years ago, all is well, and that i now have the mildest form of neuropathy, all is well also. I still was disqualified. Can I take all of my papers that the neurologist signed off on to a new clinic for a second opinion?
I want to be re-certified but I have Miasthenia Gravis. I was diagnosed 3 years ago. I have been taking my medications and it is under control. I went for my DOT physical and I was told that M G would disqualify me.
I passed everything else. I did submit this question in Feb. 2016 but do not see any comment.
@Milt
Get a medical release form from your doctor explain your condition and existing prognosis. That should help any CME make better decisions regarding your case. You may be limited to one year at the time due to the progressive nature of your condition and the desire to continually monitor your situation.
I was diagnosed with a TIA 2 months ago. Does the same rule applies for the waiting period to start back driving again for a CDL Bus driver verses a CDL Truck driver and getting passed for another Medical card?
@Houston
Check with your state drivers license department here. If you operate as an intra-state only driver, then you may be functioning on some different regs.
I was disqualified by the doctor because I was admitted to a psychiatric ward twice I am a veteran who has PTSD and it stems from my time in service. I take Zoloft for it and have not had an accident nor harmed anyone. I feel that I am being discriminated against because of that. What should I do to get my medical card back?
I am having a similar problem please let me know what came of this
Have multiple conditions. Have been on an FMCSA diabetic exemption for the last 10 years. As part of that regiment, I have to see my endocrinologist quarterly to fill out forms and evaluate my condition for driving. During the last 10 years, I have stents put in 5 times. No heart attack, just plaque blockages which were caught before any heart damage occurred. I take Effient as a blood thinner. I was still approved to remain driving. I’m on a sleep apnea machine for disruptive snoring. My yearly eye examine shows only mild background diabetic retinopathy, so no problem there.
In October, 2015, I went on Gabapentin for diabetic neuropathy – my little toes burn at night when rubbing against the sheets. My encodrinologist filled out my FMCSA quarterly forms correctly stating the change of condition/new diagnosis, and nothing more was said.
Then this March I had a ministroke (a vessel the size of a hair – a microvascular ischemic thrombic lesion) in the left lateral hypothalamus which affected a little numbness in upper and lower right lip and a small amount of numbness in the right thumb and forefinger. So knowing about the possible one year delay, I went in the the medical examiner to get disqualified officially or to start the one year (or less) wait period. The neurologist gave me clearance to drive, but said I have small blood vessel damage in a few places (I assume in my brain). Hypertension and high glucose levels were the only things I can do to minimize more of these incidents. The scans of my head/brain arteries were absolutely clear with no blockages at all, unlike my heart. My blood pressure is well controlled (on four meds) . My A1c’s have been higher than desired at 8.5-9.0, (last 8.6).
The medical examiner told me she was following the minimum guidelines of a one year wait because of the possibility of more occurrences of a stroke. But when she saw I take Gabapentin, she said the neuropathy (not progressing and very mild) would most likely be a dis-qualifier in itself. So if I get a letter from the neurologist and endocrinologist saying I’m OK to drive and the neuropathy in my feet does not affect my driving, will I be able to be re-certified, or am most likely un-certifiable. My wife really wants me to fight to keep driving. I’m only 57. I’m not on any other meds which would dis-qualify me.
@Louis
You’ll need to get a medical release form from your doctor explaining why you are taking the meds that you take. The Gabapentin is also used as an anticonvulsant, and that is going to trigger a lot of questions that could be answered quickly with the doctor’s release form.
I am paraplegic due to Guillain-Barre syndrome, which did not affect my upper body. I have been driving for 47 years with hand controls, took my initial driving test with hand controls, and have had that restriction on my license for all of those years. I want to buy new hand controls. Do I have to have certification, after all these years, in order to purchase new hand controls? If so, does the state offer this anywhere at no cost?
@ Debbie
That is going to be a question for your local drivers license department.
I had Brain surgery 5 yrs ago and took anti-seizure Meds for 2yrs but never had a seizure. I have worked in Transportation for 30 yrs . Does this Medication disqualify me from CDL forever, or will I be able to go back to my regular duties as a driver . I have been off the Meds for 3 yrs. I really need some answers My Life cant stay on hold any longer.
@Helen
What was the reasoning for the brain surgery? Depending on what the reasoning was for placing you on this meds will determine what direction to move in.
I suffered a stroke in 2000, do i need nuerologist exam every year to et a DOT physical
@Greg
A medical release form from you neurologist each time you go for your medical certificate should be all you need, if all else passes the certification examination.
I have had myasthenia gravis for 3 years. It has been under control for the past 2 1/2 years. I would like to renew my medical for my CDL class B license. Is this going to be a problem?
@Milt
Make sure you have a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and what he feels your prognosis to be. If the condition is controlled and your doctor feels that you can perform the duties of a driver, then you should be OK. But make sure you have all the information that the examiner is going to need before showing up for the examination.
Will this affect a Class A CDL. I’m in Utah and the guy who did my DOT physical said I had to be signed off by a certified medical examiner and take a 2 day driving class.
I voluntarily admitted myself into the hospital for suicidal thoughts. They involuntarily committed me and I was cleared after 6 months. Does this disqualify me for hazmat endorsement?
@Kevin
How long ago did this occur and how stable are you now? Do you have to take any medications to maintain? I know, more questions than answers, but you don’t give me much to work with.
This was 6 years ago, I was diagnosed with anxiety, but my primary care doctor already had me on anti anxiety medication for years previous to this incident. I have a letter from my primary care doctor that says i am fit to drive and have no side effects. I also reside in Pennsylvania if that matters.
@Kevin
We suspect that after a six year period without incidence and a letter of medical release from your primary, that you should do OK.
I was admitted into the hospital with what was, at the time, classified as a TIA by the Hospitalist on duty. I was kept overnight for observation, given two CT scans and an MRI, and nothing was found. The “mini stroke” diagnosis was disqualified by my neurologist, and she has since classified the event as an Acute Bilateral Migraine. The doctor who administered my DOT physical gave me a 1-month physical card since I passed the physical with flying colors, but is now withholding my card pending a EMG test for possible neuropathy. Two questions: Would an Acute Bilateral Migraine preclude me from getting my 2-year card? And, should they be allowed to withhold my card if I am diagnosed with any form of neuropathy?
Thank You.
@Mike
What the examiner is looking for is evidence that you did not suffer a TIA and that you are cleared to drive. So yes he can withhold until he has proper documentation to support his decision to allow you to drive.
Just went in to get recertified for a class D DOT physical and was honest that I voluntarily was hospitalized for MDD and suicidal behavior. At the physical they said that I could not drive for a year how can that be? You try to be upfront and honest and do the right thing and your able to drive a personal vehicle but not a work? Seems excessive. State of Iowa
@Brian
So what drivers license class are you trying for? Class D and a medical certification for a class A examination, does not make sense.
If all you need is a medical certificate to operate a small box truck or something then why would someone perform a class A DOT medical examination on you?
You may have seen someone who is over-reading what is actually needed in your case.
If after a head injury, I have been released, no restrictions from my treating physician am I required to get a new medical card?
@Mary
Yes, you need to be determined as medically fit for duty, that means a new medical certificate.
My husband has stage 4 lung cancer. It spread to his brain. He had surgery to remove the tumor from his brain. Will this surgery effect his CDL?
@Wendy
Not so much his cdl, but the surgery makes his present medical card invalid.
So once he has healed completely and has a medical release from his doctor he can renew his medical certificate. Make sure you have a medical release form from the doctor before you go for the DOT examination.
We are working to try to help one of our patients determine how long before he needs to wait before being able to get his CDL. He had bilateral craniotomies due to bleeding after a fall, he DID NOT lose consciousness. Doing well.
@Donna
Depends on the extent of the TBI. Time frames can be from a few weeks to months to never again if he is taking certain medication for things like seizure prevention. So we would need more information before we could try to answer your question.
Does a migraine disorder disqualify me to get re-certified for my bus driving job?
@Chara
Depends on their severity. A medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation and a discussion with the examiner should be all you really need.
On Oct 12, 2014, my husband had a seizure on our driveway. He was rushed to ER where he had yet another seizure. After a scan and MRI, we were told he had a large tumor and that he needed immediate brain surgery. The next day he had a craniotomy. To our surprise it WAS NOT a tumor but a golf ball size abscess. They removed it and he has made a full normal recovery. Of course the doctor has him on Depakote. This medication helps with migraines, anxiety, depression and is an anti seizure drug. His neurologist determined that the abscess came from a dog bite (very large one) that he got on the job.
He was a UPS driver. Once he was released to go back to work he went to get his DOT and they denied him because they said he falls under the epilepsy category. He has never had a seizure in his life and this was a freak thing that happened to him. His EEG was normal too.
What can he do to get his DOT card back? He has 4 years left till retirement. 🙁
Thanks! Helpless feeling wife
@Tania
He does not really fall under the epilepsy ruling, but he did have a couple of seizures and he is presently taking an anti seizure medication. All of this would disqualify him as a interstate driver with a class A license.
So some questions would be: What is his driver’s license class? Could he drive within the state as a intra-state driver with a medical card? What are the state rules regarding him driving intra-state only as a UPS driver?
You may find that he can continue driving long as he can find these things out. All of it will require a medical release form from the doctor explaining the situation and the prognosis. So be prepared first and then go for the medical examination.
My son has been diagnosed with Ms a few years back, he is under the care of a doctor and has had flair ups from time to time, but has not been unable to work or drive as of yet, these flair ups last only a week at a time when they come and he is aware when they do as they leave signs that come on gradual, he has recently went for a physical exam and was told that he would have to wait until his lesions have shrunk for at least a year, before he would be able to pass this test. This is preventing him from bettering his career and doing what he is able to do. He has NO STIPULATIONS with his doctor, but showing an MRI results within the year would show that there has been activity. Is this true that he will not be able to pass this test until a MRI shows no real results for at least a year???
Disappointed
@Brenda
What the CME will need is a medical release form from the treating doctor.
The CME is reading the guidelines and they state: “You should not certify the driver until etiology is confirmed and treatment has been shown to be adequate/effective, safe, and the condition is stable.” If the treating physician can support the stability of the condition to the CME, then there is a chance in getting a medical certificate. All this falls to the doctors agreeing that the driver would be safe operating a commercial motor vehicle and that the condition is under control.
I had a CDL for 20 years. I quit Yellow Freight to go back into the Army in 2007 at age 42. I was involved in I.E.D. blast and have PTSD. Mine isn’t the “mean” type, I have survivors quilt. Will I still qualify for a CDL? I am ready to drive again. It’s been 8 years.
@James
As long as your medical doctor will clear you as ready to return to driving and your psychologist will sign off on your medical release form, you should be fine.
My doctor (neurologist) for the examination report , just needs a note, dating and verification my examination, and my visit.
I had a alcohol withdraw seizure 21/2years ago and now I am being denied my med card because I take a medication for it. My doctor said I can quit taking the meds because I do not drink. But in the mean time My boss will not let me drive until I see a specialist. I live in Wisconsin and have a cdl for three years so what I would like to know is can I get my med card renewed right away if the tests come back OK or do I have to wait a year or more.
@Roger
You are kind of between a rock and a hard spot. You have been taking a medication for seizures and by the FMCSA rules, you will need to be off these meds for a while before anyone will consider a DOT medical certificate.
Start with a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation and medication usage. The clock starts once you are off the medications and with a good explanation from your doctor, both for the CME and your boss, you may be back to driving sooner than you think. It will depend on the medical release forms explanation and how the CME views the info.
My husband got a temp to hire position driving locally in Oregon. he does not need cdl, its a class c. They did not require a dot medical card from him upon application. Temp place said he did not need one. Hes been diagnosed with epilepsy back in 95, but hasn’t had and seizures in well over 10 years. It is controlled by medication. Does he have any hope that he’ll pass or any way that he can get a waiver of some sort?
@Lynn
You will need to talk with your local drivers license department regarding this question. Each state is different and has their own set of rules.
I have been a heavy equipment operator and truck driver for a Country Road Commission in Michigan for 39 years. In 1999 I started having headaches on the left side of my head. Went everywhere for help and tried every medication the doctors could think over the years, and the only thing that helped was Methadone and that just made the pain bearable. Then this year I find out I’m out of a job after I’ve gone threw so much to keep working because I through it was the right thing to do. Now where do I go. I’ve had 5 lower back surgeries, two neck surgeries and am going to need a knee surgery. I as a year away from my pension. Every doctor I’ve been to say’s I’m fine to work except for the band on methadone of which their doesn’t seem to be a alternative to.
Could use some advice,
Dennis
@Dennis
You want to see if your medical/prescribing doctor can explain in a medical release form what is going on. The ban on this medication is for people trying to get off heroine or other opiates. With a good explanation from your prescribing doctor, then the CME can over-ride the FMCSA guides, if he wants to, based on adequate information regarding your present condition. There are possibilities in this case, but a lot of information to help the CME support his decision is going to be needed.
I have had a hold placed on my DOT physical because I may suffer from Neuropathy. I have type II diabetes, but have long suffered from gout and may have joint and nerve damage from that. My doctor thinks that I may have diabetic neuropathy, and had prescribed Gabapentin at one point to treat it. I did not react well to the Gabapentin and have since discontinued it, about 6 months ago. The DOT physician actually saw the old prescription on a medicine list and that is what led to the hold. I am now supposed to show proof that my neuropathy is not related to my diabetes or that I don’t have it at all. I have not actually been formally diagnosed with it yet. I do, on occasion, have some tingling and burning pain in my feet at night especially when I am trying to sleep.
My question is, if my primary care doctor will not exclude the diabetic neuropathy am I banned from driving commercially? I understand the neuropathy is a progressive symptom and may get worse in the future, but it is only an annoyance at this point, and I am already subject to yearly dot physicals because of the diabetes. I am also going to be having gastric bypass surgery soon and hope that helps with my current health problems, and that may remove the issue. I am just wondering if this may be the end of my driving career, or if I can still drive with a waiver or something? Assuming it is found to be diabetic neuropathy. Thank you.
@Heath
Get a medical release form from you doctor explaining your situation and conditions. The CME needs to have supportive information to make final determinations regarding your status as a CMV operator. You do need to confirm or deny what the conditions are, and how they are going to be treated. That will determine what your driving career will consist of. If it is diabetic neuropathy, then again a medical release for the CME will be required. If the condition is controllable to date, then the CME could just continue monitoring your status.
I am a nurse and work with a Certified Examiner who is a chiropractor. I was lead to believe that he is not allowed to complete an exam for a client diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. If he goes to a neurologist who confirms he is safe to drive, can my doc complete the exam?
@Kitty
With a confirmation from the neurologist, one who understands the duties of a CMV operator, then the CME can sign off on the examination. You would need a medical release form from the neurologist to complete this process.
I had a bout of vertigo back in March 2015, and now recently about 2 weeks ago where I had to go to ER, I was released to go back to driving my truck by my primary care doc. but I was taken out of service by a DOT doc during my yearly physical….any chance of me getting back in the saddle anytime soon? I drive hazmat material.
@Mike
The CME that did your examination should have ask for a neurological eval to determine where you stand at the moment. So talk with the medical examiner and ask what paperwork you need before trying to do the FMCSA examination again.
I have just been diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis . Still doing testing to eliminate anything else . Is this condition going to disqualify me from renewing my medical card ?
@Gary
Make sure you have a medical release form from your doctor. As long as he feels that you are fit for duty and the CME has all the information to make a safety issue decision, then you may be OK. This is usually a progressive condition and may reach a point that driving is out of the question.
Can my brother be approved for a local CDL license? He’s had epilepsy since about 12yrs old. During that time he has been on medications. Last year he had epilepsy surgery. It’s been 18+ months
without any seizure. He still is taking one seizure medication, but that can be reduced after 24 months.
Does he have a chance at getting a local (non-passenger) CDL license?
@Jay
You will want to check with your local drivers license department on this one. Each state is different and your state may have a policy in place that would allow him to driver CDL as an intra-state only driver. But confirm that with your local DLD.
He lives in New York State. Would he be able to get a CDL in New York? How about Vermont or Mass?
My husband had a one time unprovoked Seizure and doesn’t have Epilespsy on Sept 29 2015 he was admitted to the hospital and was seen by a neurologist . He had an Eeg and a brain MIR with nothing conclusive . He has never had anything like this before and wasn’t precribed any anit Serzure medicine . The neurologist says he will lose his CDLfor 2 years. I beleive he is over guessing the time he would be disqualified for his Cdl. I don’t beleive he will sign off for him to drive before the two years are up .His CDL was cancelled by the state. But for how long?Who has the final word ? Thanks for your time ! Frustrated to the end !
@Penny
It would be a one year waiting period. The CME makes the final decision, but he will need a medical release form from the neurologist. Check with any CME to get a copy of the regulations to take back to the neurologist. The neurologist is great at neurology, but is not a CME and is unaware of the DOT regulations. Be polite, but have what you need before you go back to the neurologist.
my husband recently was diagnosed with parkinsons and doctor pulled his medical card and says he needs to see a certified DOT neurologist. where do you find one of these? or is there someone else he can see. we live in iowa.
@Deb
Certified DOT neurologist? Never heard of such a thing. Any neurologist will do and he needs to complete a medical release form explaining his findings for the CME. If the CME does not understand the neurologist explanation, then find a new CME.
August 18th, TIA with refusal of DOT medical card for a year;
After asking questions and pushing for answers, vascular surgeon found a blockage in carotid artery; An arteriosclerosis of carotid artery was performed; all blockage, plaque was successfully removed; vascular surgeon and Neurologist both say thumbs for returning to work as the risk for a stroke or TIA has basically removed. My risk factor according to them is the same or less than the average person;
In your opinion do you feel I will be able to attain my DOT physical again?
@Larry
Because it was diagnosed as a TIA, then the one year waiting period is in effect, according to the FMCSA. So any CME is held by this regulation.
You should be able to return to driving once the waiting period is over. Also make sure you have a medical release form from you doctors when you go for your DOT examination, as well as all of your most recent test results. The CME is going to want as much information as possible to get you back on the road.
I have been prescribed Meclizine for nausea … it does not make me drowsy …will this show on a urinalysis?
@Diane
If you have a prescription from your doctor and you can provide a copy to the MRO, if you are asked to provide one, then you should not have an issue.
I have had my CDL for 15 years (in Wisconsin) and have been driving interstate for the same company for 7 years. In October, I had labyrinthitis (inner ear inflammation) due to a viral infection, probably because my seasonal allergies were particularly bad this year. It caused a bout of vertigo and a trip to the ER (because we had no idea what was going on). It was treated, I was on short term disability and light duty for two months. The infection is 100% cleared up. Is labyrinthitis a disqualifier? Then, the Friday before my DOT follow up Monday morning, the DOT calls and says they need my full medical records from 30 years ago when I had a head injury from a car accident. Is having a head injury from 30 years ago a disqualifier? There’s absolutely no connection to the two. Do you have any recommendations?
My question. I’ve worked religiously for this OTR company for five years. Recently suffering from flares of gout. While getting blood drawn for testing I passed out and now they telling me I suffered a Transient Ischemic Attack, known as a TIA. Now my company has a policy if out of work (sick or hospital) for a week. They require a new DOT physical. Because of my hospital stay and the diagnosis of TIA. DOT doctor is telling me I cannot pass the physical. Must not have commercial drivers license for one year. I live in Florida. Is this true????
@Thomas
Any illness or injury, according to the FMCSA, not just your company, would require a new DOT examination.
You could go back to the hospital and make sure that the medical records support a TIA, if that is the case then you are on a one year wait period before you can pass the DOT examination, again FMCSA.
If a new diagnosis can be support something other than a TIA you may not have to go through the waiting period.
You should also check with your local drivers license department and see if you can drive intra-state only and ask what the states rules and regulations are regarding your condition and the wait period.
Hello I’m taking generic version of lexapro will I get a trouble to get DOT licence
Thank u..
@Andreas
It all depends on why you are taking this medication and how long you have been using the medication. There will be questions about the condition and your present usage. A medical release form from your doctor explaining the situation and your reactions to the medication will go a long way to answering the CME’s questions.
If I had a diagnosis of being bipolar but am not taking any medications at all for condition would I pass dot physical
@Jake
Depends when you were released by your doctor. You will want to have a medical release form from your previous prescribing doctor.
I wanted to know if atypical Autism ( very high functioning) is an automatic disqualified. I’m very high functioning and do know how to drive. Please reply.
@Sal
If you are able to perform the duties of a commercial motor vehicle operator, then you should not have any problems. Go to the FMCSA web-site and look up the drivers qualification / job description and see if you can perform all of these duties. If you feel that you can, then go for it.
I am Bipolar and taking LIthium since 1989. When I applied for my CDL in 1998, I had to wait a few months while the dept of public safety reviewed my medical records. And every 2 years they send a form and my primary care doctor fills it out and returns it so I can keep my cdl. I have not seen a psychiatrist since about 1998, he said primary care doctor could take care of Lithium. Now the doctor to do my DOT physical says I need a release from a psychiatrist not my my primary care doctor.He says it is the new ruling that it can’t be my pcp. Is this true? I will lose the job I love if I have to wait to set up with a psychiatrist.
@Retha
The CME needs to have all of the available information in his hands to make a decision about your state. If your Primary Care Physician has all of the available information, then there should not be a problem. Can’t tell if the CME is over-reading the guidelines or not looking at all of the available information. Get your PCP to help out here.
Hello,
I am a school bus driver in Michigan. Ihave been taking Adderal for over 10 years under doctors care. I drove a school bus in Michigan from 2005 until 2008. I then moved to Ohio and drove there as well. I am presently driving a school bus in Michigan going on 3 years.
When I returned to Michigan I was hired as a school bus driver in 2012. I was still taking the Adderal under my doctors care, and I was issued a 2 YEAR medical card.
.
I was off for some surgery for two months (not job related/not workmen’s comp)). During my time off the job, my medical card had expired. I went in for my physical before returning back to my school bus job and I was issued a 1 YEAR medical card.
I am in great physical shape & health, not over weight, no blood, heart, health or diabetes issues.. After many phone calls, on line research and a lot of run around, I could NOT get an answer as to why I was NOT issued a 2 YEAR medical card. I am still taking the Adderal under my doctors care. I have not had any problems with any drug screenings, and there have been many!
What has changed? I have been on Adderal since my very first day on this job. I am finding this
very upsetting that I only received a 1 YEAR medical card and no answers as to why.
Can you please help me figure this out?
Thank you so much,
@Krystyna
All that changed is that the CME who is doing your medical card only feels comfortable giving you a one year verses a two year card.
If you ask him point blank and he answered honestly, it would be based on his decision making process. No rules or regulations, just CME prerogative. Maybe he feels that your condition could deteriorate and he wants to keep a close eye on you. Seems like a medical release form from your PCP should suffice as more than enough information for a two year card.
Had a TIA that lasted 5 mins went to the ER they kept me a day had MRI Cat scan ultra sound EKG everything was perfect. They sent me home the nexted day and have to take a aspirin and a statin drug. The DOT doctor wanted me to go to the neurologist and I also went to a cardiologist and they both released me and so did my primary doctor. My company made another appointment with the DOT doctor and the DOT doctor called me before he even saw me and said I will not look at you even after all the other doctors released me. TIAs are more common then not. Its been 2 months and losing everything. The DOT doctor is a arrogant A and that is common knowledge.. Can he refuse looking at me and all my medical back up
@Jim
TIA via FMCSA is an automatic one year wait before returning to driving.
Check into doing intra-state only for a while. You’ll need to check with your local drivers license department to get further information regarding this issue. Good Luck
When did having narcolepsy disqualifing put into the rule that you were disqualifing. and were can get a copy
@Thomas
If not mistaken narcolepsy has been a disqualifier due to the fact that it makes for an unsafe driver. But the new DOT examiners are just now getting their stuff together. If your condition is being treated by your primary, and it is being controlled, then get a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and take that with you during the DOT examination. This will be a help for the examiner to take as much information in as possible.
Did a law go into effect July 2014 that if you have Narcolepsy but it is under control by medication and you are under the care of a physician that you still will be Disqualified from a CDL even though you have had CDL for years? Where can I get a copy of the ruling stating this?
@Thomas
Get a medical release from your doctor to explain your situation.
I have Hydrocephalus. I have had it since birth. I have held a valid Class A CDL for 22 years. I am now trying to get a job driving a school bus and the doctor giving the physicals said that I do not qualify because my the skin of my brain has be cut due to the shunt I have. I have no restrictions, no limitations, and no medications. I am 44 years old and the last time I had a shunt revision was 21 years ago. After which, I received a medical card. Is this true or is he misunderstanding the rule. I have held a valid medical card this entire time and Hydrocephalus has been listed on every one of them. The only thing that has ever been said is that I have a 1 year card instead of 2 year.
.
I was diagnosed with idiopathic polyneuropathy on 12/10/2010. Will this stop me from getting a medical card.. It is rated mild to moderate.
@Mark
Because this condition is going to cause a multitude of questions from any examiner, it would be highly unlikely that you would pass an interstate class A license examination.
You could check with your state drivers license department and see what their regulations are for an intra-state only commercial license.
Got a medical release from Nuerologist, picture of meds. Taken just after hospital stay. Trying to get on with first trucking co. Four months ago I fell and had evac uation of epidural hematoma and left sided craniotomy. No seizures,no anything. Hair analysis showed pain meds. Sent home and waiting for DOT medical examiner to decide if Im ok to drive (medical card). Will they pass me?
@Kristine
Very questionable. Each person has to be taken on a case by case evaluation.
Your CME will have to weigh all of the examination and findings from his exam and all the information from all the other doctors involved in your case. He will also take into consideration any potential safety issue that his findings reveal and ask questions from the other doctor regarding your situation. Give him time and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Do I report a TIA to my boss? Does TIA go into the FMCSA data base and who reports that to them? I heard disqualified for 1 yr. after TIA
@Tony
At least one year, maybe more depending on the area of the brain.
Your information goes on your medical history form for the doctor and a copy of your most recent results must be attached to the federal form. All of that information is kept with the CME that does the examination. This information is not turned into the FMCSA, unless they ask for it. The FMCSA database only wants to know if you pass, if so for how long, and if you do not pass. There is no specific information to the FMCSA, unless they ask for it.
I was assaulted in october of 2014. My jaw and nose were broken. Then i ended up with a subdural hematoma (blood clot) and had head surgery in november. the blood clot came back and i had head surgery again in january and again in february. Finally in July of 2015 I was released from all restrictions and given a release form to return to work and my normal duties.. I am good now, never got a seizure or anything like that. I went to do a dot physical and was given my dot card in july. Now, i applied for a driving job and the company sent me to get another dot physical at the clinic they send all the new hires, they didn’t accept the card i had. Now the doctor said i didn’t qualify because i have to wait atleast 1 year from last surgery and maybe longer depending on my injury. Is this true or is the doctor misinterpreting the dot regulations?
I had a seizure over 13 years ago for no reason. Went to see a neurologist who did all sorts of tests and found nothing as a cause. He said that some people will have one seizure for no reason and never have one again. He put me in that category and as a precaution put me on an anti-convulsant. After a few years I was weaned off and was seizure free until about 9 1/2 years ago. I had a seizure while I was sleeping. I went back to the neurologist who again did tests and found nothing, no cause, said I was not an epileptic. I asked at that time about filing a convulsive driving for with my state and he said he did not have to as it was a nocturnal seizure and some people that do have seizures will have nocturnal seizures and that you couldn’t be driving while sleeping and therefore didn’t have to be reported. Anyhow, I am going for a job at ups and I know I will need my dot card. I have been seizure free for 9 1/2 years, but on medication. Am I automatically disqualified or can I get a waiver or exemption based on my neurologist diagnosis?
@Matt
If you are taking an anti seizure medication then you will not qualify as fit for duty to operate a commercial motor vehicle. You will need to go through the FMCSA and acquire a seizure waiver. You will also need a medical release form from you neurologist before you even begin this process.
So I’m still a bit confused. Am I absolutely disqualified because of the medication I take, or is there a possibility that I can still get my card if my neurologist states that I am physically capable and get a waiver?
@Matt
If the medications that you are presently taking are anti-seizure meds, then you need a note from your neurologist and you will need to start the process for the waiver with the FMCSA.
I take a medication for mood swings and one for arthritic pain. Both of the prescriptions are also used to treat seizures which I have never had a seizure. The doctor giving the DOT physical said he wanted my medical records released from my physiatrist. Do I need to release the medical records to the chiropractor or just get the medication changed to another type along with a letter from my doctor. The medication taken for my arthritic pain is also used to treat seizures. Would I need to go to my family doctor and get the same type of Medical Opinion letter stating what is going on and why? The chiropractor states that he will not pass me on the DOT physical as long as I take any type of medicine used for seizures or elliptic disorders. As I tried to explain to him what I took them for he didn’t want to listen, just told me I was arguing with him. What would you suggest I do?
@PJ
Medical release forms from your primary doctors explaining your conditions, medications and purpose for those specific medications. Then take that information to a different CME and get your examination done. As long as you have proper documentation, your medical records are not required by the FMCSA or a CME, but the information provided by your doctors help the CME make his final decision.
I currently in pa hold a class B Cdl and my job is driving a school bus, I had a first time seizure about a month ago and had an test result of a normal eeg and mri my neurologist wants to put me on seizure medicine keppra. I was wondering if I would be able to go back to driving a school bus after my 6 month waiting period after having a seizure and put on seizure medicine. When I asked the neurologist he didn’t give a answer
@George
You really need to be asking this question at the local level. Our advice on this website focuses at the federal level, and as a class A driver you would not be able to return to driving for quite some time.
Check with your local drivers license department. Each state is a little different. Here is some information for PA Medical Card Requirements.
hi i had a head injury at work i had bleeding on the brain an the doctor said i cant pass my medical card examation for a year
Had a TBI on my job and was unconscious for a little less than 6 minutes 07/30/2015
Still having periodic issues with vertigo,headaches and fatigue. Employer doctor says I have to be symptom free for Two weeks before attempting new DOT exam. He seemed a little confused about the amount of time. My own doctor does not know either. I am in Michigan. Any idea?
Thanks
@Todd
First and foremost you will need to be symptom free and then get a neurologist release to return to work. With the neurologist release you can re-test for your DOT certificate once you are fully healed and symptom free. It will also depend on the extent of the TBI (mild, moderate, severe) that information is not presented with your question, but the release from your neurologist should answer most CME questions.
On August 15th. I had a TIA. Was hospitalized over night for observation; Within 1 hour of the TIA, I was back to normal. Had a Occupation Therapy study, neurological exam, preformed before leaving hospital, MRI, CT, Ultrasound, check of carotid arteries, check of heart valves and functions. All came back normal;
Dr. put me on a prescription of Plavix for 21 days . I am guessing as a precautionary measure. I was scheduled for a medical for DOT and School bus here in Illinois; The medical place disqualified me due to the TIA. I have researched this extensively and can find no ruling about TIA being a disqualifier. I went to Federal DOT office in Springfield, Il, They did not even know what a TIA is. Second question is the Prescription of Plavix a cause for disqualification?
Thank you in advance
Regards
Larry R
@Larry
The TIA will cause a class A driver to be on a waiting list for at least a year, possibly more.
If you are not a class A driver, then you should check with your local drivers license department and ask them the question. The primary concern now is the possibility of unprovoked seizures and as a school bus driver, safety is going to be everybodys concern.
My husband had a subarachnoid bleed in May 2015. After 3 angiograms over a two week hospital stay it was determined to be nonanuerysmal or non AVM in nature and attributed to spontaneous venous rupture. There was no loss of cognitive or physical function and never any seizure activity and consciousness was never lost. He was cleared by the neurosurgeon to go back to work after 3 months at home. A Occupational driver review was conducted and he was cleared without any issue. When he went to the DOT for clearance he was told no he could not drive for at least over 6 months and then must have another aqngiogram for clearance. This was never a recommendation by the neurosurgeon and it is not a recommendation for the future for follow up. Why would the DOT ask for such an invasive procedure that is not within the recommendtions of the neurosurgeon and place a restriction on back to work for 6 months to a year when there was never an actual loss? This was not an aneursym or AVM but venous in nature.
@Michelle
The CME has to follow the FMCSA guidelines, so that is where he is getting his information from. The federal DOT is the department that has control over the FMCSA, and both of these departments are looking at medical studies to base their decision making process on.
So the CME is not going to risk his license by overwriting the guidelines. The CME is not a neurosurgeon, so he has to try to take all of the available information and plug it into the FMCSA guidelines. Sometimes that means that all he has is the guidelines and the neurosurgeons information to try to make the best decision he can base on that information and to try to keep the driver and the public at large safe.
Your question is a good one, but you would have to ask the FMCSA why they would request so much before allowing a driver to return to work.
Hi Michelle, Were you ever able to get a clear answer to this from the DOT.? My husband is in the exact same situation and has been cleared by several doctors including a neurosurgeon. Please let me know of any steps you took. Maybe we can help each other. Lisa
Does a person driving a school bus need a psychological after age. 65
@Richard
I think you will have to check with your local drivers license department for that answer.
Hello, I have had 2 back surgeries for bulging discs and have been diagnosed with DDD, (Degenerative Disc Disease) or basically arthritis, I also periodically take prescription pain killers, will any of these disqualify me from attaining my DOT medical card, I live in South Carolina, Thank you
@Rod
As long as you can perform the duties of a commercial motor vehicle operator, then you should be alright.
You will need a medical release form from your doctor explaining your situation and limitations, if any.
Also you will want to have a ready prescription from your doctor. You will be drug tested and the medical review officer will want to see a valid copy of your prescription.
Driving is going to be a challenge due to the prolonged periods of sitting and inactivity, so take all of these factors into consideration before hand. Good Luck
My roommate hit his head after slipping on ice about 6 years ago and was put on anti-seizure meds as a precaution (they were concerned about possible seizures, but none were recorded). He has not been on the meds for 5 years and has had no seizures. What does he need to do to keep this from interfering with getting a medical card again? He tried about 3 years ago and was unable to get a card because of this history.
@Amethyst
Get a medical release form from his neurologist stating that he has had no problems and has not been on any anti-seizure medication for over five years. That gives the CME most of the information that he needs to make an informed decision.
I was hit by a car 22 years ago. I was unconscious for several days and had to undergo surgery to remove an epidermal hematoma from the left side of my skull. I never had a seizure nor was I ever on seizure medicine. I have had my class A CDL since 1998. After getting a three month med card I was told i need to see a neurologist. ( I also took a letter from my primary physician ) so what could a neurologist tell them that my doctor of 5 years couldn’t?
@J Allen
No idea what your doctor can say that your neurologist can say.
If your medical release form from your doctor explained your situation and circumstances, then your best bet is to take your business to another certified medical examiner when your three month card is about to run out. And take a medical release form from your doctor stating your facts and his findings.
I have a class a cdl to drive a bucket truck for a utility company and my dot physical is going to expire. I went for some sleep studies and the dr. Said I had restless leg and daytime sleepiness. He prescribed me with requip and nuvigil. I went to get my physical and the med. examiner said he would not sign off on me for my med card. Am I totally disqualified from DOT? I make my living as a lineman and I don’t want to lose my job. Thank you in advance for your response.
@Whit
What class driver are you? Do you travel interstate or intra-state? These are the questions any good CME needs to ask in order to have all of the information to make a final call on your license.
The medications will cause some questions, but can be worked out with the correct information at the time of the examination. You’re not disqualified as a driver, you just need to get all the information together before you go for another DOT examination. Also get a medical release form from your doctor explaining your condition and medication usage. Good Luck
Thank you very much that’s what I have done and I think I’m gonna get it worked out. Again thank you for your response it was very helpful.
I have had my CDL for 25 plus years..I was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s Diease (4 months).occasional shake tremor left side.I have neurologist (movement specialist).taking carbdopa/levodopa .and Rytary twice a day..with good results..no shakes not drowsy…I’m 54 and not ready to quit driving…I cannot find info on onset Parkinson’s..and commercial driving..my d.o.t.med card expires Feb 2016. Thx Rob
@Robert
This is a progressive condition so you will need to get a medical release form from your neurologist. It will answer some of the questions that the CME will have, but the examiner is going to have to make the final decision. Just have as much information as possible on hand at the time of your medical examination. Include a list of your medications and have your primary doctor explain the need and usage of these medications.
i had 3 subdural hematomas between nov 26,2014 and febuary8,2015. i never had any seizures or any other problems. i was just released to go back and perform regular work duties. can i still get my medical card and go back to truck driving?
@rafael
Make sure you have a medical release form completed by your neurologist. He will need to explain your situation and present condition, along with any risk factors. With the release in hand, you answer most of the CME’s questions before they can arise. The release helps the CME make a better and more informed decision about your condition and the operation of a CMV.
I told the cme that i had the release form at home and that i would return with it, but he said even if i did i still had to wait 1 year regardless if not more than that from the date of the last surgery. He said that was dot regulations. I just want to know if that is true, is that what the law says?
@Rafael
It’s in the guidelines and the second CME is not willing to take the risk factor regarding your situation. Yet the first examiner was willing to take the risk.
But it’s a guideline not a regulation, which is read as a law.
I was denied a dot medical card today because I had a brain tumor removed and treated a year ago. I never had a seizure or any negative side affects. Am I able to appeal the denial or aquire a form from my neurologist stating that I am safe to drive?
@Mitch
A medical release form from your neurologist explaining your condition and situation will go far in getting your DOT medical card. The release answers many questions that any CME is going to have about putting you on the road.
Also have your primary doctor explain your non-seizure activities. If you are not on any medications, then there should not be any real issues, once everyone understands the full extent of your situation and condition.
Come on dot docs. It’s in the book. If the tumor was in the back of the head then it’s a one year wait. If it was in the frontal portion of the brain then a two year wait person
Dot docs. …. I am in the same situation. If the tumor was on the back or your brain then it is a one year wait. If it was on the front of your brain then it is a two year waiting period. Would have thought DOT docs would have known that info rather than giving a half baked answer.
iwas recently diagnosed with a neurological disease called Cerebral Ataxia. I have had numerous blood tests, a
MRI, a sleep study and a spinal tap. My symptoms are mild at this time but there are no cures for this disease and it is a progressive disorder. Will this disqualify me for renewing my CDL that I have had for 24 years and also drive a one ton truck for work
@ Mark
This condition is progressive and can cause loss of motor control, which would make it highly unlikely that you will be able to pass the DOT examination. If you can downgrade to a standard drivers license or to intra-state only, you may be able to continue to drive until you know you are truly unsafe. But for DOT interstate, I don’t believe you will pass. Check with your state DLD and see what they have to say about driving with the downgrade.
A little over a year ago I had 3 seizures due to being on two medications at once. My Neurologist released me to drive again , but the DOT doctor in texas said it has to be reported and cleared by my state of Arkansas. My doctor never reported it to begin with. What do I do?
@ Robert
Just having the seizures puts you into a waiting period, and you doctor needs to know that. Once you have gone through the waiting period and you are not on any anti-seizure medications, then you may be able to return to driving. But as it is right now your medical card is invalid and you will need a medical release from your neurologist explaining your seizures and your treatment.
I had a stroke two months ago, It affected my phiriforal vision,my vision to the front is good. My primary doctor sent me to an opthamoligist and he’s told me I may not be able to ever drive again. I haven’t seen my neurologist for a while but have an appointment on June the 30th. I’ve done some research on the internet that there is a one year waiting period after astroke for reaccurences. Is this true? Just wanting to get back to work as soon as possible and need to know what my next step is. I’ve been a CDL driver for over 30 years and must admit have some anxiety over starting a new career at this time. I believe I could pass the dot physical but not sure about the requirements after a stroke. Any help would be greatly appreciated. THANK YOU!!!!
@Mark
A one to five year waiting period, depending on where the stroke was. Vision must be at least 70 degrees from straight ahead or better in each eye, to pass the DOT medical examination. You might check with your local state drivers license department and see what the requirements are for an intra-state only driver.
In 2010 I was seeing a therapist and referred me to a psychiatrist who had prescribed me anti depressants up until mid 2012 I was taking anti depressants. I have not taken any medications or seen this doctor since 2012. Do I need to bring this up at a dot physical exam?
@Nick
Bring it up and have a medical release form from your primary doctor in hand when you go for the DOT examination. That should answer any questions that the CME will have and you shouldn’t have any problems.
ive been diagnosed with CFS/ME, i dont have the brain fog, but i have sever pain, headaches (when not on my meds). ive alreayd been an otr dirver for 5.5 months last year. i want to know if just having it will disqualify me, i want to get back on the road so bad.
@Justin
You are going to need a medical release form from your primary doctor explaining your situation and your condition. That will answer most of the questions for the CME. If you go in without the basic information you are going to be sent out to get it, so start with the info in hand. This condition is going to need some explanation and discussion to see if you will qualify. Good Luck
I am a 20 year delivery driver I do not have or need a CDL.I only need a class C license for the truck I drive I have had epilepsy since age 10 I have been taking dilantin ever since. My primary doctor has passed me on all physicals I’ve needed. I have been seizure free for almost 30 years . What are my options.
@Jeff
I’m not sure what the question is here.
Sorry I have been driving a delivery truck for 21 plus years I do not have or need a CDL and drive locally.. I was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 10 I am over 50 now I take 300 mg dilantin a day and have not had a seizure since 10/08/1986 My primary doctor has given me a medical card until this next physical because he is not certified Question I know it is up to certified doctor but will a medical release form help me ?
@Jeff
As long as your state allows you to drive within the state with your condition, then you would want to get a medical release form completed by your doctor. It will be a huge help in answering most of the CME’s questions before you get started.
Check with your state in their intrastate regulations.
I went to get my med car renewed. I was told that since I had a stroke 10 years ago and am still on Plavix that I needed release from a neurologist. This has never been a problem in the past. I don’t even remember the doctor I saw then. It was a TIA and I have had no problems since. They failed me. I called 2 neurologist in my area and they both said they would have to start over with tests since this was so many years ago. It will cost me between $3500 to $5000. I don’t understand why after all these years of getting my med card it is an issue now. Please help.
@ James
Get a medical release form filled out by your primary care doctor and take that with you to the next DOT examination. It will answer most of the questions that the CME has. You ran into a CME that is over-reading the regulations and is covering his behind. All CME’s must be able to substantiate their decision making process, and can do that only with appropriate information from your primary doctor.
If you have been cleared by a neurologist after a stroke to drive is there still a mandatory wait time based on federal law or state of Illinois law. Please don’t tell me what’s recommended. I’m talking about the law. I’m a school bus driver with a current CDL.
@Greg
You are a school bus driver and you fall under the state’s variances.
You need to check with your local state drivers license department, this is a state issue not a FMCSA issue. We address questions mostly at a federal level as it is impossible for us to keep up with all differing state regulations.
I had a minor accident in July of 2002. 3 weeks later I was diagnosed with a subdrual hematomy. I had surgery in August of 2002, released after 11 days from the hospital, and released from the neurosurgeon in December to “continue normal activities” as my final appointment was good and all functions were good. I finished antibiotics and took anti-seizure meds for a while but haven’t taken any meds since some time in ’03. I never lost consciousness and never had a seizure. I got a class B CDL for day driving in Ga. and was asked to get a medical card. The PA at the end of the physical asked about my previous surgery, when I told her about it she denied me temporarily and asked me to get records from the neurosurgeon. I told her I was released in late 2002 and had driven 300,000 miles in the last 12 1/2 years on an outside territory sales job, and had even driven a Nascar driving experience at 140 mph… but she insisted on records. The neurosurgeon has found a copy of the report from the last follow up visit in 2002 but say they don’t normally keep records past 7 to 10 years. Is this required after 13 years of having had no trouble to drive on a daily intrastate, inner city job with no overnight or long haul trips?
@David
Not really. A medical release form completed by your primary doctor would suffice. The CME is over-reading your situation and doing a CYA for herself. Just have your neurosurgeon/primary do your medical release and you should be good to go.
This morning the PA said form from neurosurgeon looked good, but wanted to check with her medical director when he came in before giving me the card. Called back and said he wanted clearance from a neurologist.The records are gone, Dr. King isn’t a neurologist, he’s a neurosurgeon, so now I guess I’ve got to schedule an appt. with a neurologist somewhere to get a medical card … for something that happened 13 years ago even when she said I have been asymptomatic for almost 13 years. Is this normal or are they being a little over the top? We’re talking about a lot of money to get an appt and an exam with a neurologist for clearance of something that happened in August of 2002.
@ David
You didn’t give me any information regarding what your condition was. That being said, if you have a medical release form from your neurosurgeon and it is somewhat recent, like the last couple of years, then it should do. If the note is older, then you might want to get a medical release form from you primary doctor. That would avoid the the neurologist, maybe.
does a pacemaker/defibrillator disqualify your cdl?
@Gregory
It does not disqualify your CDL, but it will not allow you to pass your FMCSA medical certificate.
Try checking with your local drivers license department and see if you can operate as a intra-state only cdl driver. Each state is a little different, so check with them.
I have been diagnosed with a vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma). Will I be able to keep my cdl and medical card both before and after surgery?
@Michael
If the present condition is not effecting your ability to safely operate a CMV, then you should be able to continue driving for now.
Once you are out of the seat and going to surgery, your medical card becomes invalid and you need to re-certify. So once you are fully healed and ready to return to work, just get a medical release form completed by your primary doctor and you should be good to go.
I didn’t know since it is considered a brain tumor. I will not have any hearing in that ear after surgery and at best only 60% in other ear.
The hearing requirements are for ONE ear only (both eyes, but one ear requirements)
i have been diagnosed with brain lesions and cerebral atrophy,terrible headaches have taken medical leave applying for disability. Is my condition automatic disqualified for my CDl trying to establish disability and retire. Any help would be greatly appreciated Thanks Robert
Yes. “Disability” means disabled.
My problem is complicated. I have had nerve damage in my lower right leg for years but have always passed dot physical. Recently I broke my right hip and have damaged my femoral nerve and cannot walk because of pain issues. The injury was in November and the feedback I am getting from my docs is not good, he has said with my history no doctor is going to pass me for a dot card, even if I can walk at some point. My injury happened at work and I will not lie about my medical condition to anyone to keep my license, and of course workers comp is giving me a hard time about everything. Could someone tell me who I can talk to regarding my medical nightmare and what My rights are regarding all of this.
Thank You, Tom Anderson
@Thomas
Until you are fully healed and released from your doctors care, there is nothing you need to do. Once you are healed and you know where you stand in regards to your physical condition, there may be things and/or waivers that may allow you to go back to driving. First get well and see where you are. As far as looking into your other issues, you may want to deal with a good attorney.
Get an attorney, if BWC is giving you trouble. You can have a FCE (functional capacity exam) done. Go to an Occupational Health Center with an affiliation with a Physical Therapy Department.
I suffer from what’s now being called Familial hemeplegic migraines about once per year. I live in CO I always know when one is coming on and I have time to drive to a safe place to shut down. I have done this without incident for over 15 years. New information says that the the drug Imitrex that I have been taking should not be taken with this class of migraine and could actually cause a stroke. It has been suggested that I be placed on Beta Blockers or an anti seizure medicine as a preventative instead of a treatment. I know if a dot doc sees anti seizure meds I will not pass the DOT physical or can have my card taken. What about Beta blockers? My mother suffers from frequent migraines and the beta blockers seem to be eliminating the severity and frequency. Mine are infrequent, but are severe.
@Mike
You are correct with your seizure medication and not clearing a DOT medical examination.
As far as the beta blockers, you need to talk with your primary doctor regarding this issue. Some beta blockers will still have possible side effects that may cause questions. So check with your PCP and be on the lookout for things like dizziness or other possible side effects from the new medications.
The DOT medical examiner will need a medical release from your doctor, explaining your use of medication.
Can i pass a DOT physical with neuropathy
@Adus
That will depend on a lot of factors. If your condition does interfere with your ability to operate a CMV safely or restricts your ability to pass the DOT “Fit for Duty” examination, then no you will not pass the examination for the medical certificate. All that being said, it really depends on the extent of your condition.
Does Dystonia disqualify from a medical card
@John
It will depend on the level of your condition. The Dystonia is also progressive and your medical cards would be short, so that everyone involved can continue to monitor your condition and your situation. Safety first, not your condition is what FMCSA and the medical examiner are going to be looking at.
Are you able to drive a class a truck if you have ms
@Mike
If you can pass the medical certification examination and are found to be ‘fit for duty’, then you should not have any issues. Make sure you take a medical release form from your doctor. That will answer most of the DOT examiners questions.
How long after a severe concousion does a class a driver have to wait to get medically cleared to return to driving OTR
@James
It will depend on lots of things. Type of injury, conscious or unconscious, any neurological signs or symptoms, etc. Not just one simple answer.
Once cleared by your primary doctor, have him fill out a medical release form and take it with you. It will answer lots of the CME’s questions and help him make a more informed decision for you.
On Feb 3rd 2015 I passed out for no reason and ended up having 3 staples in the back of my head I was sent to a neurologist and had an eeg the results showed that I have partial seizures and put on medication he stated that I could not go back to driving a truck for 90 days per the KY law. He sated that if I couldn’t go back to driving then he would put me on disability but I want to go back to work. Will I ever get to go back to driving otr .
@Rodney
This will really depend on what type of driving you are talking about.
As an OTR driver, it will be a long time before you will be able to return to the road.
As a local, intra-state driver, then it may be a shorter wait period. But you need to consider both the safety for yourself and for the public at large. Follow up with your neurologist and see what he is thinking, then consider what other options you may have for work that does not entail driving. Or if driving, what type. Good Luck
I recently had surgery to drain the blood from a subdural hemotoma. I was unaware, as was the neurosurgeon, that this surgery would disqualify me from passing my d.o.t. physical because it penatrated my “dura”. Are there any exemptions for this type of surgery to get qualified to drive again ?
@Kevin
Just because there was a dural penetration does not mean you are disqualified for life. Direct answer is no, there is no exemption that I am aware of. But that being said, once you are fully healed and the neurosurgeon is happy with the results and he feels that there is no longer any danger in you returning to work, then have him complete a medical release form stating his opinion and bring any qualifying test results to support that opinion.
That will answer most of the questions that the CME will have. The CME has to take into consideration the findings and test results from the neurosurgeon. Based on a multitude of medical opinions, you may be able to return to work as a driver.
Another option may be to drive intra-state only. It’s not as stressful as OTR and you are home more often. Just a thought while you recover and get fully back on your feet.
I had a zeisure back in 2003 when I was in middle school. I apply for a job last week, they send me to do a physical.the doctors company won’t release me because of this issue. I told her all my EEG scans came out negative and that I haven’t had any zeisures for the past 12 yrs. what can I do.
@Hector
Instead of just telling them what your condition is, try taking a medical release form, completed by your doctor. That answers most of the questions that the CME has and he can support his decisions better with a release from your primary doctor.
If a driver has a transient ischemic attack (TIA), are they disqualified from driving a CMV?
@David
Once they have gone through the waiting period following the TIA and if there are no other effects left over from the TIA, then they may be able to return to driving. They may also be able to drive intra-state only, based on the state rules.
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease 5 years ago. I take ropinirole for tremors and amitriptylin for Parkinson’s insomnia. My neurologist says that he can’t tell that I have any symptoms other than a softening of my voice. Does PD disqualify me from class A CDL?
@Roy
As a general statement no.
But it will be a huge help if you have a medical release form completed by your primary neurologist, explaining your situation. Also, you may be place on a shorter length medical certificate so the CME can continue to monitor your driving capabilities.
I suffer from “Cranial Rectal Inversion” Is that a disqualifying condition for the DOT physical?
@Dick
No it does not, it pretty much makes you as normal as the rest of us in this industry.
Can I pass the DOT physical if I have MS?
@Arleen
Only if you are ‘medically fit’ for duty and can perform the duties of a commercial motor vehicle operator.
You can find those duties on the FMCSA website.
These requirements are explained in our DOT Physical Exam Guidebook.
what are the rules for a transit operator returning to work after a stroke is it a five year hold on your green medical card.
@Myra
If you are not a class A driver traveling interstate, then you need to check with your state DLD to make the final determination.
If you are a class A driver then you will need to get a medical release form completed by your primary doctor explaining where the stroke was. That will be the determining factor on the waiting period.
Thank you ,but what does DLD stands for? So I will know where to look.
DLD – your state driver’s license department.
Thank you that’s the Department of Motor Vehicles I’m in the state of California Northern California that and I went through them they don’t have a clue either I gotta feeling this doctor is not telling the truth cuz I haven’t been able to find it anywhere I think they think I’m a liability at this point which state can’t really admit. Once again thank you so very much for your time
My husband suffered a seizure on October 12, 2014, and was diagnosed with a meningana brain tumor which was removed on October 23, 2014. He is an OTR Owner Operator and we need to know what the possibility is of him going back to work and the time frame. Our nuerosurgeon stated that seizure was caused by tumor and since tumor has been successfully removed he has no risk of another seizure. The nuerologist also took him off of all antiseziure medicines on December 15, 2014.
Any answers we could get would be greatly appreciated.
Sara Shannon
@Sara
This one will be touchy at best. Start with a full release form from the neurologist.
Any CME is going to have a lot of questions at the very beginning and the release will answer most of those questions. With a full release and off anti-seizure medications, there will be a waiting period, but it is based on the neurologist release form. So check with your local DOT examiner, once you have the medical release and he should be able to answer this question better, with all of the available information in hand.
I’m a transit operator for the City and County of San Francisco I had a stroke a little over a year ago I was denied my queen medical card because of where I had my stroke they’re saying telling me its a five year hold weight to get my green card because I had a left middle cerebral artery stroke I have no deficit I’m back to 95% I passed the test in office but they came back and said I couldn’t have my green car because of the type of stroke that hat I can’t find my question anywhere nor does it say on any website for the state or federal that it’s a five year hold I need that question answered is it really a 5 year waiting period
@Myra
It is a recommended waiting period. Try having your neurologist complete a medical release form for you. With the correct information, the waiting period can be shortened by the CME. But he has to have supporting information before he can act on it.
I am currently have a CDL B with hazmat I am currently seeing a therapist that thinks I have a issue with anxiety. I was trying to find out if my primary physician can write me a prescription for antidepressants and what they would so that I would still be able to keep my job with Virginia CDL
@Cindy
Just have your prescribing doctor complete a medical release form for you. That will answer all the questions that any examiner will have.
Is there a required length of time a CDL driver who’s had a stroke has to wait before returning to driving?
@theoron
A lot will depend on the location of the stroke. In general it will be a one to five year waiting period. Check with your local DOT examiner to determine the level and length of time you will have to wait.
I am UPS package car driver for 25 years. For the last two years in the month of December my Doctor puts me on Lexapro 10mg once a day for stress or maybe low level anxiety. At the end of January I usually stop. I went to get my DOT today. DOT Doctor said since Lexapro was prescribed by my primary Doctor and not a psychologist or psychiatry she is putting it on hold. Once I get cleared from either of them, she will pass me. What do you suggest?
@Jim
The medical examiner may be over-reading the guides.
If you have a medical release form completed by your primary doctor explaining your situation, then you should be good to go.
Does Chiari malformation type one disqualify you from obtaining a fed med card.
@Jason
Not in and of itself.
Make sure you take a medical release form from your medical doctor with you at the time of your DOT examination. That form will answer most of the questions that the DOT examiner will have. Good Luck
My son is trying to get certified. When he was 19 he had an accident (almost 7 years ago) that involved a TBI were a small cotter pin penetrated his dura. He did have surgery to have it removed. He never lost consciousness during his accident, has never had any kind of epileptic seizure that is defined in the DOT handbook that says would disqualify him. He is a very healthy adult male. He has been denied his clearance by a dr. because of his accident. Everything that we read states that even a person that suffers from epileptic seizures is able to get approval if they go 5 years seizure free. My son should be able to get his if he has NEVER once had any type of seizure in 7 years?
@Dawn
A lot will depend on what his primary doctor states in the medical release form that your son needs to have completed before he goes for his DOT medical examination. If he is not taking any seizure medications and he is as healthy as you imply, then there should be no problems. The rules and guidelines are pretty straight forward regarding this type of condition, and you are reading the guides correctly.
So get the medical release form completed first, and then go for the physical. Good Luck.
My husband has been seizure free for 15 years but still take medication for the seizure. He drives truck and need a DOT physical to keep driving, but doctor won’t pass his because he still takes the medication and the state of New York said he is ok to drive even tho he is still on the meds. Can you give us any advice on where we should go from here. Thank You
@Trina
The CME’s with not much experience doing DOTs are not reading through all the information.
Start with a medical release form completed by his primary doctor and neurologist, if you have one.
The medical release form should answer most of the questions that the CME will have.
Also make a copy of the information from your state regarding the issue.
The more information you can bring with you regarding his situation, the better. Good Luck
In the state of Oregon how often does a person who has been diagnosed with bipolar need to have their Department of Transportation card renewed? Once a year or every two years? Thank you.
DOT is federal. State doesn’t matter. Maximum 1 year card.
I had a heart attack Sept 1st, 3 stents, went home after 4 days, had a TVI or stroke Sept 12th, released 5 days later. Passed stress test Nov 3rd, have Dr releasses from primary Dr and Cardio Dr. Now being told have to be off work for 1 yr.???? Is there a way around this, drive mini bus for small town for general pub.
@Dana
You actually fall under a different set of rules, other than federal DOT. Federal is going to be a one year wait for a class A wanting to drive interstate.
But intra-state only has a different set of rules, and each state is different.
Check with your state Drivers License Department and see what your state rules are regarding your CDL and driving intra-state only for commercial operators. Good Luck
i had surgery 4 years ago to remove a colloid cyst. i have had no medical problems since the surgery. i went in for my dot physical last week. the exam was done by an assistant. he would’nt sign the medical card without consulting with the senior physician. about a week later, the physician contacted me and informed me that he was unable to issue me a medical certificate because of a new rule concerning invasive cranial surgery and seizures. As i stated i have had no medical issues since the surgery. also no family history of seizures. any help would be greatly appreciated.
@David
Get your doctor to complete your medical release form and take it with you when you go for your next DOT examination. The release form answers many questions that the CME will have and it also explains that you are well past the waiting period for any type of surgery.
I have been driving commercial vehicles since 1986. I was diagnosed with a mild form of Narcolepsy 10 years ago and was treated and cleared by my doctor to drive. I have passed several DOT medical exams by my family doctor since but with the new requirement for Certified Examiners he can no longer do my physical. The doctor I went to this week disqualified me because of my Narcolepsy. I have been driving for 28 years with no incidents before and after my treatment. My record proves I am a safe driver but apparently that doesn’t count. Is there anything I can do to retain my CDL and get medical clearance?
Thanks, Matt
@Matt
Get your medical release form completed by your primary doctor explaining your conditions and that will answer many questions that the CME will have.
Good Afternoon,
I was just hired for a delivery carrier, pending my dot physical. My question is I have add, and I am currently taking adderal for it, does this disqualify me from passing?
Thanks for your time.
@Reginald
No. Just make sure, before you go for your DOT examination, that you have a medical release form completed by your primary prescribing doctor. That form in hand at the time of the examination answers many of the questions that the CME will have.
I had a stroke in 2012 called a cavernous malformation (ich). There was no surgical intervention was necessary for my diagnosis. I returned to work after a 1 year waiting period. I just went to renew my dot card and they won’t issue me one. Do you know why I would be denied?
@Mike
You want to have your neurologist complete your medical release form for you before you go back for your DOT physical. The release will answer most of the questions that the CME will have.
@Mike
Did you have a completed medical release form done before you went for your DOT examination?
If not, do it first with your cardiologist and then go for the DOT examination. That forms answers many of the CME’s questions.
2004 I recieved surgery for a brain tumor. The resection left me with what they call simple partial seizures that are controled by medication. Their nothing more than slight twitching of the left arm. I have authorization to drive a car or pick-up truck for personal use per my neurologist and seizture specialist and all I want to do is drive a vehicle that falls within the peramiters of a standard license. Can I qualify to get a DOT card if I have a note from either doctor?
@Glenn
If you are going to change drivers class to a class A, then you will need to get a waiver from the FMCSA.
If you are going to stay with a standard driver’s license, you should be able to get a medical card with a note from your neurologist and your state may require a waiver permitting you to operate a vehicle over 10,001 pounds.
My doctor has had me on clonazepam for the last eight years to help with my dystonia and sleeping disorder at the same time. I also suffer from anxiety and take lexapro for that. I have heard that being on clonazepam is disqualifying for the DOT physical clearance even if my physician has written a medical opinion letter. I do not suffer from seizures for which this medicine is typically perscribed. I also have an impeccable safety record and have been driving since 1988. Is this really a disqualifying event?
@Dan
Have your doctor fill out the medical release form and take it with you when you go for your next DOT examination.
It will answer most of the questions that the CME will have.
HOW LONG DO HAVE TO STAY OFF FROM DRIVING A TRUCK IF YOU FALL OFF YOUR TRAILER AND HAD BLEEDING ON THE BRAIN
@Johnny
Once your neurologist releases you to return to work, then get him to complete your medical release form for you. Take that with you when you go to get your new medical certificate. It will help answer the medical examiner’s questions.
Yesterday I went in for a DOT physical after being disqualified for 6 months due to suicidal ideation. I was not trying to be deceptive, but I said “no” to mental health in my health history because I didn’t feel like I was having any issues with my mental health and I was ready to perform my duties driving a CMV. This was the same ME’s office I went to as I did 6 months ago, so they had my chart to go by. The nurse asked me if I was still taking prozac; I said no, she left okay and left. The ME came in and performed the physical and passed me. I had the letter from my psychiatrist’s office stating that I was fit and no mental health issues were present at this time. The ME never asked about my prior visit there and whether I had something stating I was psychologically healthy, so I left it alone and was ready to get back to doing the job I love.
Today I get a call from my soon to be employer that I had to go down and close this loop and give a copy of the letter to the ME. The ME’s office refused to take the letter from me, despite its validity. The ME also told me he would not because I mislead him and he would not listen to my explanation of the situation, and he also did not notice the letter in my hand during the physical even though it was in plain view. Despite the fact that he said he wasn’t upset, he was clearly angry at me and would not try to see this rationally and come to a resolution. He disqualified me for an additional 12 months. Do I have any other recourses in this situation legally or otherwise?
@Chad
Basically, you have a one year waiting period to pass first, from the first incidence.
Then get the medical release form completed by your doctor. After that you should be good to go.
Does guillan barre syndrome disqualify a patient? They also have neuropathy but it does not effect their driving. Grips are weakened and I have not been on any medication for neuropathy because my insurance will not approve it.
@Cristy
Get your doctor to complete a medical release form for you.
He/she will be able to answer this question a bit better once he/she sees what a driver must do for a living. I believe your condition is going to be restrictive, but you may be able to make it, for a while, with the right documentation.
Hi I was diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy which is causing all sorts of problems this causes dizziness blood pressure swings and loss of body sensations I think I already know the answer to this but is this a disqualifying disorder and this isn’t the only thing I have wrong I also have sleep apnea and a heart condition and I take three different kinds of blood thinners from antiphospholipid syndrome anyhow thanks for your time.
I believe you are right. Your present list of conditions would more than likely disqualify you as a CDL driver.
In most cases we are looking for any condition which would cause the driver to be unsafe or have conditions that could come on quickly and not allow the driver to get to a safe space before the public at large was endangered.
Hello, I’m a Tow Truck Driver in MN and have recently had a seizure. Once I’ve been cleared by doctors can I return to work straight away or do I need to wait a year?
The FMCSA regulations are pretty strict on this, and want a one year waiting period.
I did have a driver go from interstate to intra-state, so he could continue to drive until his one year was up. Good Luck.
I had a TIA on September10th, 2010 should that effect me getting a CDL ? Had an echocardiogram on August 20th,2014 my EF is 60% . Have seen my cardiologist every 6 months since TIA and have had no problems or recurrences since. Todd
@Todd
You want to have your cardiologist complete your medical release form before you go for your medical examination. The waiting period following a TIA can be as short as a year and as long as ten years, all based on what the cardiologist has to say. Take as much information as you can so that the DOT examiner has enough info to make an informed decision. Good Luck
I have a Class A Cdl but I don’t drive for a living. Got my cdl about 20 years ago and don’t really want to give it up. Without the medical card then I automatically loose it. I guess my issue is that I take remeron and risteril for sleep. I don’t plan on driving commercially but I don’t think it’s fair that I can loose my license without a dot card. What recommendations do you offer please?
@Frank
It depends which category you self-certify, and the regulations of your state. You may be able to keep your CDL without a medical card.
This article on CDL medical certification requirements should answer most questions on this subject.
Read the TIP at the end of the article – Not driving but want to keep your CDL.
We have an Iowa driver who had a stroke in the spring. He was told by the Iowa DOT he cannot get a medical card for 6 yrs. We are a trucking company for hire, he insists in Iowa he does not have to have a medical card to drive. I can not find anywhere in what I have researched where he can drive without a medical card for us. I can find where he could drive a farm truck to haul grain to market without the card but nothing I find says he can drive for us without his medical card.
Can you help us out with this, we cannot put him behind the wheel according to our Insurance without the medical card but he is insisting this is not true. Thank you.
@Shirley
Well lots of questions would need answering for the stroke issue. You don’t give enough information for this.
Question about the need for a medical card? If he wants to drive interstate for any company, anywhere in the US, even intrastate in Iowa, he has to have a medical card.
See Iowa CDL and DOT Medical Card Requirements.
I had a non-epileptic seizure at work and am currently having ECT treatments for depression. My Boss says I can’t drive for 10 years because of the seizure and even if I hadn’t had the seizure she says I have to wait 3 months after ECT treatment before I can drive. DOT doctor gave me my card knowing I was having these treatments, what do you think?
@Michelle
I think the doctor who did your examination and gave you a valid medical card does not understand his role as a DOT medical examiner.
The one time seizure and off any type of anti-convusant is a minimum of one year waiting period.
And the ECT treatments needs more information before I could even begin to try to answer your question.
So, based on a small amount of information you have provided, you should be in a waiting period of at least one year and your medical card then will be limited to one year at the time.
On October 31, 2008 I was treated for Bipolar Disorder and OCD through the VA hospital/clinic. I have been on several medications from day 1 and I have no side effects from the medication. I will most likely take this medication the rest of my life. Does this disqualify from obtaining my CDL?
@Steve
It will mostly depend on the medications you are taking for the bipolar condition.
I would get a medical release form filled out by your primary doctor, explaining your condition and your meds.
Then the DOT examiner has more information to work with. You may be limited to driving intra-state, but I am not sure.
I’ve had Meniere’s Disease since 2004. On Thursday, July 3, 2014, I went for my physical exam and was informed that as of April 2014, Meniere’s is disqualifying. It is the one job that I am able to do without restrictions. I don’t want to lose my cdl license which will result in me losing my job. Please advise.
Thanks,
Chris
@Chris
Meniere’s has always been a disqualifier.
Your examiner has now been made aware if this.
If you are not an OTR driver, you may be able to get your primary care doctor to complete a medical release form for you and see if that will work as an intra-state only driver. That way you can keep your CDL and your job without trying to qualify as an OTR driver.
Good Luck.
With the new laws now , can they take my CDL if i was just found out i have MS
@Carla
If your diagnosis is confirmed with your neurologist, then get a note from him regarding his treatment plan and any medications. Take that note, with a completed medical release form to your DOT examiner. It helps him make a qualifying decision.
Gentlemen: I had diagnosed acute appendicitis on the 20th of April 2014..Procedure was laparoscopic appendectomy. Discharged next day ..Provided my company with the discharge instructions and my return to work was May 9,2014…The company, Schneider uses a third party and they informed me I would have to go back to our family doctor and have him/her sign their own forms. They wanted to know diagnosis, and post op instructions,and to wit they wanted me to sign a form releasing my medical records to them.. I do not have to release my medical records to anyone especially a third party entity..Subpart P- Confidentiality and Release of Information 40.321
My procedure was not drug nor alcohol related and they were given my clearance with no restrictions to return to work…. They (FirstLab), have informed me if I do not sign the release of my medical records I will not return to my job! This is bull….I’m in my 25 year as a driver instructor,driver ,etc. .I’m also educated and personally think they are in violation of my rights as a driver.. What would you do? Sincerely–Denny C
@Dennis
Ok, the short answer is:
Once you were no longer in a position, (acute appendicitis) to operate a commercial motor vehicle, then you must get a new medical examination to return to work. That’s the regulation / law via FMCSA.
What your DOT examiner needs is a note from your primary healthcare provider stating that you are ready and able, according to the job description posted on the FMCSA website, to return to work.
Your employer only needs to know that you have taken and passed a new DOT medical examination and that you are fit to operate a CMV according to the DOT examiner. That’s it.
Does taking gabapentin for restless legs disqualify me? Thank you.
@James
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
These would be reasons not to qualify a driver of a commercial motor vehicle. If you have been on this medication for any length of time, have your doctor write a note explaining your condition and your response to the medication. This helps the DOT examiner make reasonable decisions.
I have OCD and have been on Celexa and Abilify for the last 5 years. The medicine keeps pretty much all symtoms under control. Will being treated for this disqualify me from getting a cdl?
@ J.C.
Just download the medical release form from our blog and have your primary healthcare provider fill it out for you and take it to your next DOT medical examination. The blog post will give you more information too.
A Driver had a stroke 8 years ago. He was released to drive again after a six month recovery period. He has driven a truck for the last seven years with no issue. Would the fact that the driver now takes Plavix ( blood thinner) as a preventive against future stokes be a problem in a DOT physical?
@Sandra
I would make sure the driver takes a letter/medical release to the DOT examination.
There should be no problems and the note from the primary healthcare provider will help the examiner make the proper decisions.
would the driver have to have a current INR if on a blood thinner?
@Dustylew
I would try to have a medical release form and the most recent up-to-date information available when you go for your DOT examination. The more you can help the examiner the better off you are.
Client with CDL has unprovoked seizure 1 year ago. Takes anti seizure meds. Wants to terminate meds. Medical certificate about to expire. No further seizures. Excepted intrastate driver. Can he terminate meds without compromising his medical certificate. How long off meds before he can driver interstate?
@ Robert
Unless the client has a written explanation from his primary healthcare provider as to when and why your client was taken off his medications, I would have a whole lot of questions. Seizures and truck driving don’t go together very well. It’s a safety issue more than anything else. But with proper documentation, his new medical certificate should not be a problem. I believe a one year post seizure medication is required before he can drive interstate. Check with FMCSA for confirmation.
If a driver who has never officially been diagnosised with PTSD and has only participated in “talk thearpy” but now feels they need more help. If they go to their physician and are placed on medication will they lose their DOT physical card? Do they have to report the new diagnosis if they are not due for a new physical until next year?
@ Kelly
I don’t believe you would lose your cdl. You will need to make your DOT examiner aware of the new medications at the time of your next DOT medical exam. You will also need to have a note from your primary healthcare provider, indicating what your new meds are and whether your condition is stable on these meds and for how long your condition has been stable.
In 2001 I had two seizures,one at home and one on the way to the hospital in the ambulance. I was diagnosed with “right temporal lobe cavernous hemangioma. Treatment: craniotomy & resection of mass. Off Dilantin since 05/03. No other seizures. Does this situation disqualify me from a health card?
@ Dennis
I do not believe this situation is a problem now. It has been many years since you had any incidence. A note from your primary healthcare provider regarding this condition would help the DOT examiner in his evaluation.
I get Vertigo once every 2 years. Doc prescribed me with Meclizine 25mg. Does this desqualifies me? Fisrt one happen in 2011 and this time it happened on sept 2013.
@Francisco
Meclizine side effects “This drug may make you drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.”
This is a disqualifier due to public safety and personal safety. You may be able to get a medical release note from your primary care physician stating his/her opinion that you can perform your duties safely. Give this release note to the DOT doctor to help ascertain your qualification for a medical card. The final decision to qualify you, still rests with the medical examiner doing the DOT physical.
Hi I have positional vertigo. Does this disqualify me to renew my medical card? I didn’t have it before and the doctors don’t know why I have it now.
@Tiffany
This will need a letter from your primary doctor stating what your condition is, how long it’s been going on, what treatment is being prescribed, and what the doctor’s opinion is on the safety of you operating a CMV. You will need to have been episode free for a period of time before you will pass the DOT examination.
would lightheadedness be a disqualifer had one problem at home and passed out none before and none after
@James
Do you know why you passed out? This would be a major question.
Driving 80,000 lbs. and 80 feet long with a driver that may pass out is a real big safety issue. By FMCSA regulations, you should know why it happened and what the causes were. After that you may have to wait for a designated time frame, without incidence, before you would be able to pass the DOT examination.
Remember, it’s about safety, both for you and the public at large.
I just passed a two year dot physical for a new company however the human resource lady is wanting to talk to my Personal doctor because I told the doctor of the new company’s choice I have controlled vestibular migraines. I told this to the doctor doing my dot physical and she passed me yet it’s not good enough for this hr lady cause she says in the CDL book she is looking at the word vestibular is disqualifying for a CDL. I’ve always had this and have always passed dot physicals. Any suggestions where I can get info on vestibular? I called the safety responsibility who issue medical cards in Arkansas and they said they have never heard of this being disqualifying.
@Jeremy
Your best bet on this is to get a note from your primary healthcare provider explaining your condition in words that your HR lady understands. She is right with a true vestibular condition, but may be wrong in regards to your specific condition. Unfortunately, there seems to be a breakdown in communication here, so help her understand.
Thanks for the question.
I have been diagnosed with ms and was off work for 8 weeks. I received a docs realease from my neurologist with no limitations to go back to work. I passed my physical for driving but because of ms and meds I was told I would have to go to another doc for certification through Montgomery Alabama. My company knows nothing about this and I am off work with no pay while they are “checking into it”” Can you help with what to do?
@John
Mostly what is going on is that your condition is of a progressive nature.
Most medical doctors have no idea of the job requirements of a driver, so releasing you to return to work without understanding what your job and job requirements are, is not really up to your neurologist, but up to the DOT examiner.
The note to the DOT examiner is the best thing you will be able to to do, right now. I believe there will be a waiting period from the date of your diagnosis and the time you will be able to return to work. I would download the medical release form from the dotphysicaldoctors website and have your neurologist complete it. That will address most of the DOT examiners questions and safety concerns. Then it may just be a time factor regarding your driving again.
Thanks for the question. Trucker Docs
I have been on Neurontin for years for familial neuropathy in my legs and feet. Suddenly, at my DOT physicial the MD said it was not allowed. What am I supposed to do? Did the ruling change? I cannot find an upate to “the list”.
@Jimmy
Because Neurontin is used for things like seizures, the DOT examiner may be leery of clearing you for a DOT medical card.
My advise would be to take a note from your primary healthcare provider explaining the type of drug you are taking and for what purpose.
You can get the basic form here in this ‘medical release’ article. It’s a template for your doctor to use to answer the primary questions and it also explains what your driving responsibilities are. That should help the most.
Thanks for the question. Trucker Docs.
I have trigeminal neuralgia. This does not interfear with my daily activities or quality of life. I see a neurologist 2-3 times a year. Will this disqualify me from obtaining a CDL and/or passing a medical exam?
@ Niki
In and of itself, your condition is not a disqualifier. But, I would get a note from your neurologist to verify your condition. Make sure you explain to your neurologist what type of work you are going to be doing. Over the road driving can be stressful over long periods of time and most doctors have no idea of the stress and strains of an OTR driver’s job. Bring the supporting info with you to your DOT exam and you should have no problem.
Thanks for the question. Trucker Docs